Functional characterization of peptides from Acheta domesticus proteins: intestinal transport, cytotoxicity, and gene expression modulation in Caco-2 cells

This study explores the bioactivity and intestinal absorption of peptides from Acheta domesticus (house cricket), emphasizing their potential health benefits and relevance to sustainable protein sources. Six peptides (DVW, AVQPCF, QIVW, CAIAW, PIVCF, and IIIGW) obtained from the simulated gastrointestinal digestion of the A. domesticus proteins acyl-CoA Delta12-desaturase, acyl-CoA Delta-9 desaturase and diuretic hormone receptor were assessed for their effects on gene expression markers related to diabetes (DPP-4, SGLT1) and hypertension (sACE, ACE2). Using Caco-2 cells to model intestinal absorption, the peptides were evaluated for transport, cytotoxicity, and impact on barrier integrity. All peptides were non-cytotoxic up to 2 mM; however, DVW and PIVCF disrupted epithelial integrity. Only DVW crossed the epithelium intact. While none of the peptides significantly affected sACE or ACE2 expression, DVW and PIVCF notably downregulated SGLT1 expression (to 0.42- and 0.52-fold, respectively), suggesting potential antidiabetic effects through reduced glucose absorption.