Biopeptides in Milk: Opiate and Antithrombotic Effects

Recently, the concept of functional food can be seen worldwide, and there are several local wisdoms on health–conscious. In this context, the protein fractionation of\milk has attracted interests. Casein-derived bioactives have been identified as showing several health beneficial bioactivities including opiate, antithrombotic, antioxidative, antimicrobial, osteoprotective, anticariogenic and growth–promoting. Peptides have to be absorbed from the intestine and reach the target cells in sufficient concentrations or act via receptors; then they can show health effects. In this review paper, the milk–derived peptides and their therapeutic effects are introduced. Also the opiate and antithrombotic effects of these peptides are described.