Bioactive Peptides from Milk and Dairy Products: Applications and Activities

Milk and dairy products serve as natural sources of bioactive peptides, which are protein fragments with significant health-promoting properties. These peptides exhibit a range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, and antithrombotic effects. Bioactive peptides are primarily released through enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial fermentation, or gastrointestinal digestion. Among them, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have gained particular attention due to their ability to inhibit pathogenic microorganisms by disrupting cell membranes, interfering with bacterial metabolism, or modulating immune responses. Additionally, bioactive peptides contribute to cardiovascular health by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and preventing blood clot formation. Their antioxidant effects protect against oxidative stress, while opioid-like peptides influence neurological functions. This review provides an overview of bioactive peptides derived from milk and dairy products, focusing on their production, mechanisms of action, health benefits, and potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Further research is needed to optimize their bioavailability, stability, and large-scale production to enhance their functional applications in human health.