Functional and biological activities of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN) protein by proteomic and bioinformatic analyses

• DOI: 10.1007/s11694-024-02383-3
• Publication Date: 2024-02-12T20:02:32Z
• Authors: Chia Hau Lee; Norfadilah Hamdan; Bemgba Bevan Nyakuma; Syie Luing Wong; Keng Yinn Wong; Haryati Jamaluddin; Ting Hun Lee
• Keywords: Proteomics; 0301 basic medicine; 03 medical and health sciences; Protein-based bioinformatics; Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN); Functional proteins

Edible Bird's Nest (EBN) is a traditional food in Southeast Asia that has been consumed for centuries. In addition to its high protein content, numerous researchers are now exploring the functional proteins of EBN, which have yet to be identified. The present study investigates the EBN proteome by integrating mass spectrometry with protein-based bioinformatics analysis. For protein recovery, three different precipitation techniques were employed; of these, the ammonium sulfate (AS) precipitation technique produced the highest protein yield (74.85%, p < 0.05). The AS precipitation technique was effective in preserving the integrity of EBN proteins as revealed by protein electrophoresis. A total of 35 proteins were identified in the EBN-AS proteins. The predominant function of EBN-AS proteins is immunomodulation, which was further confirmed by their antioxidant [DPPH· activity (23.86%) and ABTS·+ activity (41.97%)], anti-inflammatory [inhibition of nitric oxide production (22.84%), and inhibition of albumin denaturation (19.48%)] assay. Hence, EBN-AS proteins have the potential to regulate the immune system and could be used as natural ingredients for the development of functional foods. Graphical Abstract: (Figure presented.).