Immunomodulation by a malleable matrix composed of fermented whey proteins and lactic acid bacteria.
Functional foods and nutraceuticals have gained in popularity over the last 10 years. Among natural health products, whey proteins and fermented milk products are paramount. A malleable protein matrix (MPM), composed of whey fermented by a lactic acid bacterium, capsular exopolysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, and peptides generated during the fermentation process, has the potential to be unique by combining multiple health-promoting components. Forced feeding experiments on healthy animals were performed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of MPM. Glutathione production, antibody response, and the modulation of leukocyte populations were monitored. The stimulation of the immune system by MPM consumption was evident as seen by the increased polymorphonuclear cell counts and intracellular glutathione levels. The absence of MPM-specific antibody production indicated a lack of undesirable immune recognition of MPM. The MPM, with its immunomodulatory properties, has the potential to be a food substitute or a functional food for maintenance of general immune health.
Beaulieu
Josée
J
Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada.
Dubuc
Roger
R
Beaudet
Nicolas
N
Dupont
Claude
C
Lemieux
Pierre
P
D000818:Animals; D000917:Antibody Formation; D004044:Dietary Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D005285:Fermentation; D005978:Glutathione / Q000097:blood; D006293:Health Promotion; D007109:Immunity / Q000187:drug effects*; D007778:Lactobacillus / Q000378:metabolism*; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008894:Milk Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000378:metabolism; D009504:Neutrophils; D019936:Probiotics; D051381:Rats; D011917:Rats, Inbred Lew; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D000067816:Whey Proteins
D004044:Dietary Proteins; D008894:Milk Proteins; D000067816:Whey Proteins; D005978:Glutathione