Antioxidant Peptides: Unlocking their Mechanisms of Action
Introduction: Antioxidant Peptides in Focus
Antioxidant peptides play a pivotal role in combating oxidative stress, with a mechanism rooted in atomic and electron transfers.
HAT and SET Processes: The Basics
They primarily involve HAT (Hydrogen Atom Transfer) or SET (Single Electron Transfer) mechanisms. During the HAT process, heteroatoms separate from protons through SAPL (Solvent Assisted Proton Loss). This can involve proton movement within interacting molecules depending on acidity or alkalinity. Such processes enable antioxidant peptides to quench ROO· via hydrogen transfer. Their effectiveness is often gauged by the bond dissociation energy of the peptide’s H-X group.
Amino Acids and Their Role
Antioxidant peptides with amino acids like Tvr and His generally rely on the HAT mechanism. However, those rich in His, Cys, and Tyr lean towards the SET pattern. How these peptides function in living systems largely hinges on the activity of antioxidative enzymes.
From Plants and Grains to Cells
Peptides and hydrolyzed proteins from plants and grains correlate with antioxidative enzymes, lipid reduction, intracellular reactive oxygen, and thiol cellular steadiness. Wheat germ peptide, for example, is known to reduce cell apoptosis and modulate the antioxidant pathway. Its role in elevating CAT and SOD activities in PC12 cells, along with its anti-apoptotic actions, has been observed. Similarly, maize peptides safeguard liver functions by curbing lipid oxidation, enhancing SOD activity, and raising glutathione levels in the liver. Oat peptides, on the other hand, amplify oxidative stress-related enzyme activities and increase cellular glutathione production, showcasing their antioxidant effects in HepG2 cells.
Conclusion: The Power and Potential of Antioxidant Peptides
This overview highlights the intriguing world of antioxidant peptides. For a deeper dive or additional information, the ETprotein team is at your service.