Effects of Bioactive Peptide, Valyl-Prolyl-Proline (VPP), and <i>Lactobacillus helveticus</i> Fermented Milk Containing VPP on Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Rats

Abstract

Background: Valyl-prolyl-proline (VPP), a bioactive peptide formed during the fermentation with Lactobacillus helveticus LBK-16H (L. helveticus), has been shown to increase bone formation in vitro. The aim of the study was to determine whether VPP and L. helveticus fermented milk prevent bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Methods: During the 12-week intervention study, the OVX rats received VPP in water or L. helveticus fermented milk, containing VPP. Sham-operated rats receiving water acted as controls. The trabecular and cortical bone mineral density were determined by peripheral quantitative computed tomography before the operation and at 4 and 12 weeks. The mechanical testing and ash weight analysis as well as the static and dynamic histomorphometrical parameters were assessed at the end of the intervention. Results: VPP given in water showed no clear effect on bone loss. L. helveticus fermented milk prevented bone loss by decreasing bone turnover and increasing the bone mineral density. Ovariectomycaused a 57% loss in the trabecular bone, which was attenuated by 16% in the L. helveticus group. Conclusions: VPP peptide did not prevent ovariectomy-induced bone loss, which could be due to the poor bioavailability of VPP from water solution. L. helveticus fermented milk prevented bone loss, whether this is due to the VPP peptide cannot be concluded.

Probiotics in Gut-Bone Signaling

“…paracasei NTU101 or L. plantarum NTU 102 in ovariectomized mice [8]. Narva et al has also demonstrated a similar outcome with the use of fermented milk, valylprolyl-proline, and Lactobacillus helveticus LBK-16H in ovariectomized rats [73]. Finally, Rodrigues et.al showed that synbiotics, in this study a combination of prebiotics (Yacon flour) and probiotics ( Bifidobacterium longum) , increased bone mineral content in rats [51].…”

Kefir improves bone mass and microarchitecture in an ovariectomized rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis

“…The data were expressed as the mean±SE (n=3) with vitamin D and calcium reduces serum parathyroid hormone and bone resorption markers as compared with that of isocaloric and isoprotein dairy products in elderly women. Narva et al [46] showed that Lactobacillus helveticus fermented milk prevented bone loss by decreasing bone turnover and increasing the bone mineral density. Thus, kefir assists with calcium absorption through the TRPV6 calcium channel within an in vitro model system, which in turn may affect the attainment of peak bone mass and OVX-induced bone loss.…”

Cheese in nutrition and health

“…In an animal study with ovariectomized rats, the group fed with L. helveticusfermented milk significantly prevented bone loss by decreasing bone turnover and increasing bone mineral density [65]. VPP in water could not prevent bone loss and the authors concluded that this might be due to the poor bioavailability of the bioactive peptide in water.…”