Reducing Allergenicity by Proteolysis

Cow’s milk allergy is a health problem of growing concern. However, it is possible to modify the inherent allergenic properties of milk proteins by proteolysis typically for use in hypoallergenic infant formulas (HA IFs). HA IFs are widely used in the management cow’s milk allergy (CMA) and may be applicable in the prevention and treatment of CMA.

Here we provide an overview of milk protein allergens and the factors involved in the in vivo digestibility of these, including intestinal tract proteases, pH, surfactant, matrix, processing, and glycation. The industrial-scale production of HA IF involves the use of common commercially available proteases followed by drying and additions of other dietary nutrients.

To some extent, the degree of hydrolysis determines the overall allergenicity of the HA IF, which is influenced by parameters such as the specific proteases used, hydrolysis duration, enzyme to protein ratio, matrix, and processing. Several molecular assays can be used to determine the degree of hydrolysis and evaluate product allergenicity in vitro, however animal models may represent an important tool for evaluation of sensitising and primary preventing capacities of HA IFs.