BCM-7: Opioid-like Peptide with Potential Role in Disease Mechanisms

Abstract

Bovine milk is an essential supplement due to its rich energy- and nutrient-rich qualities. Caseins constitute the vast majority of the proteins in milk. Among these, β-casein comprises around 37% of all caseins, and it is an important type of casein with several different variants. The A1 and A2 variants of β-casein are the most researched genotypes due to the changes in their composition. It is accepted that the A2 variant is ancestral, while a point mutation in the 67th amino acid created the A1 variant. The digestion derived of both A1 and A2 milk is BCM-7. Digestion of A2 milk in the human intestine also forms BCM-9 peptide molecule. The opioid-like characteristics of BCM-7 are highlighted for their potential triggering effect on several diseases. Most research has been focused on gastrointestinal-related diseases; however other metabolic and nervous system-based diseases are also potentially triggered. By manipulating the mechanisms of these diseases, BCM-7 can induce certain situations, such as conformational changes, reduction in protein activity, and the creation of undesired activity in the biological system. Furthermore, the genotype of casein can also play a role in bone health, such as altering fracture rates, and calcium contents can change the characteristics of dietary products. The context between opioid molecules and BCM-7 points to a potential triggering mechanism for the central nervous system and other metabolic diseases discussed.

Emerging Parameters Justifying a Revised Quality Concept for Cow Milk

“…Thus, A1s have the potential to release short β-casomorphin (BCM) opioid peptides, including BCM-7, during gastrointestinal digestion [ 99 ]. Several authors associated BCM-7 with adverse immune reactions, an increased cancer risk, and impaired lactose digestion in milk consumers [ 100 , 101 ], although this remains a highly debated topic within the scientific community. In fact, many bioactive effects that were attributed to protein fragments were assessed in vitro and in animal models, and further robust investigations supporting those effects to be maintained in humans are required to justify any effort to move milk production processes in this direction.…”