Nrf2-mediated protective effect of protein hydrolysates from Protaetia brevitarsis larvae against oxidative stress-induced hepatotoxicity

In this study, we hypothesized that Protaetia brevitarsis larvae (PBL) protein hydrolysates, which have been previously reported to exhibit strong antioxidant activity, might protect liver cells against oxidative stress-induced injury. Thus, the cytoprotective effects and related mechanisms of PBL hydrolysates were investigated in AML12 liver cells. Among PBL hydrolysates prepared by three different proteases, the PBL flavouryzme hydrolysate showed significantly higher protective effect against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity than other hydrolysates in AML12 cells. Further mechanistic studies showed that pretreatment with PFH reduces cellular level of reactive oxygen species through induction of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and heme oxygenase-1. In addition, the free amino acid analysis revealed that PFH was rich in branched-chain amino acids, aromatic amino acids, and hydrophobic amino acids as compared to other hydrolysates, which could contribute to its hepatoprotective effect. These findings suggest that PFH represents a potential source of nutraceuticals that supports liver functions.

Automated summary

In this study, it was found that Protaetia brevitarsis larvae (PBL) protein hydrolysates, which have strong antioxidant activity, may protect liver cells from oxidative stress-induced injury. Among the hydrolysates prepared by different proteases, the PBL flavouryzme hydrolysate showed the highest protective effect against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in liver cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that the protective effect of PFH was associated with its ability to reduce reactive oxygen species and induce antioxidant enzymes.