Abstract:

Objective: To investigate the effect of low-molecular-weight whey protein peptides (WPP) on physical development, bone growth and blood parameters in young rats. Methods: Forty male SD rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 10 rats each, designated as control group, groups with WPP intervention at low, middle and high doses, which were 0.225%, 0.45 % and 1.35 % WPP, respectively. All rats were subjected to feeding for 42 consecutive days. Body weight and length of each rat were measured once a week. Blood parameters, femur length and diameter, bone mineral content and bone density of each rat were analyzed at the end of experimental period. Results: WPP intervention at the dose of 0.45 % and 1.35 % resulted in an obvious increase in body weight, femur length, and food utilization rate of rats. Compared to the control group, the bone mineral density and mineral content of proximal femur in rats treated with 1.35 % WPP exhibited a significant increase although no significant impact on femur dry weight, length and diameter. Moreover, the levels of serum creatinine and uric acid in rats treated with 0.45 % and 1.35 % WPP were significantly decreased. Conclusion: WPP could promote growth and development of young rats, and enhance their bone mineral density.

Key words: whey protein peptides, growth and development, bone mineral density