Use of kefir peptide (Kef-1) as an emerging approach for the treatment of oxidative stress and inflammation in 2K1C mice

Food Funct. 2022 Feb 21;13(4):1965-1974. doi: 10.1039/d1fo01798e.

Abstract

The benefits of kefir consumption are partially due to the rich composition of bioactive molecules released from its fermentation. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are bioactive molecules with potential use in the treatment or prevention of hypertension, heart failure, and myocardial infarction. Here, the in vivo actions of the Kef-1 peptide, an ACE inhibitor derived from kefir, were evaluated in an angiotensin II-dependent hypertension model. The Kef-1 peptide showed a potential anti-hypertensive effect. Additionally, Kef-1 exhibited systemic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the Kef-1 peptide decreased ROS production through the reduced participation of NADPH oxidase and mitochondria. The aorta of 2K1C mice treated with Kef-1 showed lesser wall-thickening and partial restoration of the endothelial structure. In conclusion, these novel findings highlight the in vivo biological potential of this peptide demonstrating that Kef-1 may be a relevant nutraceutical treatment for cardiovascular diseases.

MeSH terms

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Animals
  • Antihypertensive Agents / pharmacology
  • Aorta / drug effects
  • Aorta / pathology
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Inflammation / metabolism*
  • Kefir*
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / cytology
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects*
  • Peptides / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Peptides