Globally, aquatic processing industries pay great attention
to
the production of aquatic proteins for the fulfillment of the nutritive
requirements of human beings. Aquatic protein can replace terrestrial
animal protein due to its high protein content, complete amino acids,
unique flavor, high quality and nutritional value, and requirements
of religious preferences. Due to the superior functional properties,
an aquatic protein based delivery system has been proposed as a novel
candidate for improving the absorption and bioavailability of bioactive
substances, which might have potential applications in the food industry.
This review outlines the extraction techniques for and functional
properties of aquatic proteins, summarizes the potential modification
technologies for interaction with polyphenols, and focuses on the
application of aquatic-derived protein in delivery systems as well
as their interaction with the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The extraction
techniques for aquatic proteins include water, salt, alkali/acid,
enzyme, organic solvent, and ultrasound-assisted extraction. The quality
and functionality of the aquatic proteins could be improved after
modification with polyphenols via covalent or noncovalent interactions.
Furthermore, some aquatic protein based delivery systems, such as
emulsions, gels, films, and microcapsules, have been reported to enhance
the absorption and bioavailability of bioactive substances by in vitro GIT, cell, and in vivo animal
models. By promoting comprehensive understanding, this review is expected
to provide a real-time reference for developing functional foods and
potential food delivery systems based on aquatic-derived proteins.