Bioactive peptides and metabolic health: a mechanistic review of the impact on insulin sensitivity, lipid profiles, and inflammation
Mamoudou Hamadou
Abstract
Bioactive peptides , derived from dietary proteins including dairy, legumes, and marine sources, demonstrate various regulatory effects on metabolic homeostasis via specific biochemical interactions. These peptides improve insulin sensitivity by activating the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway and facilitating AMPK-mediated GLUT4 translocation, while also influencing incretin hormones through CaSR-dependent GLP-1 secretion, DPP-4 inhibition, and digestive enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) inhibition. Their influence encompasses lipid metabolism , characterized by the suppression of cholesterol synthesis through HMG-CoA reductase downregulation and the promotion of fatty acid oxidation via PPARα/AMPK signaling. In addition to glucoregulation , bioactive peptides demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects through the inhibition of NF-κB/MAPK pathways, the scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the activation of Nrf2-driven cytoprotective genes. They regulate adipokine signaling, including leptin sensitization and adiponectin secretion, as well as cardiometabolic hormones, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition and cortisol reduction. These mechanisms result in enhanced glycemic control , diminished adipose tissue dysfunction, and lowered cardiovascular risk. Bioactive peptides have shown efficacy in preclinical models and are promising nutraceutical candidates for the management of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes , obesity, and atherosclerosis . Translational challenges, including oral bioavailability and dose optimization, require additional investigation to fully realize their therapeutic potential. Bioactive peptides play a significant role in metabolic regulation , particularly in enhancing insulin sensitivity. These compounds are increasingly recognized as nutraceuticals due to their potential effects on inflammation and hormone modulation.