Whey Proteins and Derived Peptides Reinforce Immunity, Offering Antiviral and Antibacterial Protection

The immune system's ability to combat viral and bacterial infections is critical, yet conventional treatments often have limitations or side effects. There's a growing interest in natural bioactive compounds that can bolster host defenses and offer prophylactic or therapeutic benefits. Whey proteins and milk-derived peptides represent a rich source of such compounds, known for their nutritional value and documented health-promoting properties. Understanding their specific mechanisms, such as immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, is crucial for developing novel strategies to enhance immune system reinforcement and maintain intestinal homeostasis during infection.

This review systematically examined existing literature on key whey and milk proteins, specifically lactoferrin, glycomacropeptide, β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, and their derived peptides, particularly lactoferricin and lactoferrampin. The authors synthesized evidence regarding their immunological, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial activities. The scope included both in vitro and in vivo studies, aiming to highlight their potential as preventive or therapeutic agents and to identify areas requiring deeper mechanistic clarification and clinical validation.

Evidence suggests that whey proteins (WPs) and their derived peptides significantly contribute to improvements in both innate and adaptive immunity. They exert direct antiviral and antibacterial effects, while also modulating host defenses through immunoregulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Specifically, compounds like lactoferrin and lactoferricin have demonstrated activity against various pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, as well as other viral and microbial infections. These mechanisms contribute not only to enhanced resistance against viral pathogens but also to maintaining intestinal homeostasis and microbiota balance, both of which are critical during infection. > The review highlights significant in vitro and in vivo evidence for whey proteins and their derivatives as potential adjuncts or alternatives to conventional antivirals, showing activity against SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and other microbial infections. Their immunomodulatory effects are linked to improved host defenses and direct antimicrobial actions, underscoring their broad protective potential.