Nutritional properties and osteogenic activity of simulated digestion components and peptides from Larimichthys crocea

Fish provides a range of health benefits due to its nutritional and bioactive components. However, the bioactive peptides derived from Larimichthys crocea proteins were not fully investigated, especially the beneficial effects related to bone growth in vitro. In this study, the water extract protein was subjected to the simulated in vitro digestion process, and the osteogenic effect of enzymatic hydrolysate at different digestion stages was evaluated by the proliferation of osteoblast. The protein hydrolyzates of group pepsin treatment for 1 h and pepsin treatment for 2 h showed higher osteogenic activity in vitro. Two peptides including IERGDVVVQDSPSD from pepsin treatment for 1 h and RGDLGIEIPTEK from pepsin treatment for 2 h were identified, which revealed eminent effects in terms of promoting osteoblast proliferation and enhancing ALP activity. Moreover, the available nutrients in the proteins were determined by the molecular weight distribution and free amino acid composition. Those peptides also showed stronger interaction with RGD than integrins. Therefore, the peptides from Larimichthys crocea can be used as an effective ingredient for promoting bone growth in the future.

Automated summary

This study investigated the bioactive peptides derived from Larimichthys crocea proteins and their potential benefits for bone growth. The protein hydrolysates treated with pepsin for 1 hour and 2 hours showed higher osteogenic activity in vitro. Two identified peptides, IERGDVVVQDSPSD and RGDLGIEIPTEK, were found to promote osteoblast proliferation and enhance ALP activity. Additionally, the molecular weight distribution and free amino acid composition of the proteins were determined. These peptides also exhibited stronger interaction with RGD than integrins, suggesting their potential as effective ingredients for promoting bone growth in the future.