Amongst the various types of proteins present in the mammalian milk, another protein present is the beta lactoglobulin which is considered as a small globular in structure kind of protein which is mostly found in the milk of ruminants like sheep and cow, as well as some of the other mammals, but not all. It is one of the most studied and researched upon protein present in milk and has been a wide area of interest for many scientists. It offers an essential biological role which has been reviewed many a time, resulting inmultiple theories and analysis.
Role of beta lactoglobulin:
Unlike the other milk protein called alpha-lactalbumin, which contributes to many of the bodily functions, the exact function for these globular milk proteins is still a hot topic of research with no proper identification.
It is considered as a lipocalinprotein, which is a small group of proteins that is mainly involved in the transport of different molecules. These globular proteins are also said to be capable of binding with many different hydrophobic molecules, which indicates the role it has in the transport. It is also capable of binding with elements like iron by siderophores,which suggest its role in pathogen combating.
A homologue of this globular protein found in the milk of ruminants is said to be lacking in the milk of human.
Benefits of beta lactoglobulin
Though the function of this globular protein is not determined ultimately, there are certain notable benefits that it offers, which helps in improving the body functioning. Some of the benefits of these proteins are:
- It plays a major role in boosting the immune system of the human body by various methods. It is suspected to help in enhancing as well as modulating the immunity of the human body by the process of promoting cell proliferation.
- As they are considered to be a lipocalin protein, they help in the process of transport, especially of hydrophobic molecules.
- They also are capable of binding with different metals and elements like iron that also helps in the process of transport.
- These are the largest component of ruminate milk and also the most studied type of milk protein.
The allergic reactions due to beta lactoglobulin
Many people all around the world are lactose intolerant and are majorly allergic to the milk of ruminants like cows and sheep. Beta lactoglobulin is a type of globular milk protein, which is also the major allergen that is found in the cow’s milk. It is the most common type of protein present in cow’s milk that causes an allergic reaction in different individuals. While most of the people are allergic to more than one type of milk protein.
The allergic reactions caused by these proteins are dangerous but mostly not fatal and can be easily detected early by self-diagnosis α-lactalbumin. There are many allergy tests available in the market that can help you know for sure the cause of your allergy.