A team from the Food Science Research Institute (Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación), a joint centre of the CSIC and the Autonomous University of Madrid, has identified food peptides that induce the secretion of appetite-suppressing (anorexigenic) gut hormones.
Specifically, the peptides identified activate the secretion of the incretin hormone GLP-1 (which stands for ‘glucagon-like peptide-1’), among other hormones. Incretins are molecules of intestinal origin that stimulate insulin production. Among these, GLP-1 is the most studied and some studies have shown that patients with diabetes show a decrease in the secretion of this hormone.
Son péptidos de origen alimentario, como leche y huevo, que se pueden producir a partir de alimentos, ingredientes o subproductos de bajo coste,
"The GLP-1 hormone is involved in many functions. It controls the digestive process, induces satiety, and stimulates the release of insulin in the pancreas, therefore controlling plasma glucose levels," Isidra Recio explains, a CSIC researcher and one of the authors of the development.
Currently, synthetic GLP-1 analogue molecules or inhibitors of the enzyme responsible for its degradation (DPP-IV inhibitors) are used to treat diabetes or obesity. The possibility that the activity of this hormone can be stimulated by dietary peptides opens the door to an alternative treatment that activates the body's natural response during digestion, without side effects.
The possibility that the activity of this hormone can be stimulated by dietary peptides opens the door to an alternative treatment that activates the body's natural response during digestion, without side effects.
Scientists have conducted trials in animal models, with very positive results. They note in particular that administration of the peptides prevents the blood sugar spikes that occur after ingestion of carbohydrate-rich foods and which are particularly problematic for people with diabetes. The scientists have also conducted experiments with cell cultures (intestinal organoids) to identify the receptors involved in the signalling of these peptides.
The peptides could be an alternative to drugs for controlling glucose metabolism. Another possible application is as a food supplement using a protein hydrolysate containing these peptides to help treat overweight and obesity.
The peptides are from food sources, such as milk and egg. They can be produced from food ingredients or by-products at low cost, by high-yield processes and easy to scaleup. They can be formulated as ingredients to incorporate into foods or beverages, or in different preparations.
Contact:
Antonio Jimenez-Escrig
Vicepresidencia Adjunta de
Transferencia de Conocimiento - CSIC
Tel. 34 - 915681930