PROCESS FOR OBTAINING BIOACTIVE PEPTIDE EXTRACTS BY HYDROLYSIS OF WHEY PROTEIN BY CYNARA CARDUNCULUS ENZYMES, AFOREMENTIONED EXTRACTS AND RESPECTIVE APPLICATIONS

摘要

The present invention relates to a process for obtaining, peptide extracts from whey proteins by hydrolysis of one or more proteins or peptides containing the amino acid sequences of bioactive peptides, using for that purpose, proteolytic enzymes in particular cardosins and other similar enzymes- produced by Cynara's species. Alternatively, peptides can be obtained by chemical, synthesis or by enzymatic processes and/or fermentation. The process enclosed by the present invention allows obtaining protein concentrates and peptides with low-lactose and salts content, which have biological activities relevant to the formulation of products in food and pharmaceutical industries. Thus, the hydrolysates and their fractions or peptides resulting from this process can be used in food products acting as a preservative or after eating, strengthening the body's natural defenses. Alternatively, they can be also used in the preparation of pharmaceutical products aimed at diseases, particularly to facilitate control of blood pressure and/or bacterial infections, as well as inflammatory and ulcerogenic processes. The invention allows enlarging the applications of milk proteins, thus contributing to the recovery and in particular the valorization of whey.