Marine Protein Research Articles

Nutrition and physical performance in older people—effects of marine protein hydrolysates to prevent decline in physical performance: a randomised controlled trial protocol

IntroductionAge-related loss of muscle mass, muscle strength and muscle function (sarcopenia) leads to a decline in physical performance, loss of independence and reduced quality of life. Nutritional supplements may delay...

Testing the Use of δ2H Values for Reservoir Corrections in Radiocarbon Dating Human Bone

AbstractConsumption of marine protein in humans and animals can result in an apparent older radiocarbon (14C) age due to reservoir offsets. In order to correct for this, an estimate of the marine protein intake should be used to correct the 14C age for reservoir offsets, which is ordinarily done using δ13C or δ15N values. However, these two isotopic proxies can be influenced by a number of factors which can hamper estimation of the correct marine protein intake. A small dataset of 12 samples from the Limfjord, Denmark, ranging in age from Mesolithic to Viking Age, was used to test the use of δ2H values to quantify marine protein intake and determine the reservoir corrections. Each of the three stable isotopic values (δ2H, δ13C, δ15N) was used to estimate the percent marine protein intake, which produced three different calibrated 14C ages. The calculated percent marine protein intake differed between the use of the stable isotopic ratios with a maximum difference of 42.1% between the use of δ15N and δ13C, 23.8% between δ2H and δ13C, and 46.2% between δ2H and δ15N. In some cases the calculated percent marine protein intake changed the sample’s archaeological period, although there was generally still overlap in the archaeological periods for samples used in this study.

Effect of partial replacement of marine protein and oil sources in presence of lyso-lecithin in the diet of tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon Fabricius, 1978

<p>A 42-days growth trail was performed to evaluate the effect of lyso-lecithin in <em>Penaeus monodon</em> (5.08±0.08 g) in terms of growth and carcass fatty acid composition. Three iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets were prepared by partially replacing both marine protein and oil sources using plant based ingredients in the presence of soy-lecithin or lyso-lecithin. Each experimental diet was randomly allotted to three tanks with fifteen shrimps per tank and all the tanks were equipped with the flow-through system. Results revealed that shrimp fed diet with lyso-lecithin had significantly (p<0.05) higher specific growth rate, SGR (2.15) and daily growth coefficient, DGC (1.44) than those fed soy-lecithin (1.91 and 1.25 respectively). The growth pattern, feed and protein efficiency measures were not only better with lyso-lecithin compared to soy-lecithin and also on par with the control group. However, there was no significant difference in survival (82.22 to 84.44%) between the dietary treatments. The fatty acid composition of diets to a certain extent was reflected in the carcass composition of shrimp. The most essential fatty acids <em>viz.,</em> eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids were significantly (p<0.05) higher in shrimp fed lyso-lecithin supplemented diet. Present results suggest that lyso-lecithin enhances growth performance of <em>P. monodon</em> and carcass fatty acid composition compared to soy-lecithin due to its high emulsification properties with partial replacement of marine sources.</p>

The Islamic cemetery at 33 Bartomeu Vicent Ramon, Ibiza: investigating diet and mobility through light stable isotopes in bone collagen and tooth enamel

The Balearic Islands occupy a central space in the western Mediterranean, at the maritime crossroads between North Africa, the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of southwestern Europe. As such, it is well placed to investigate changes in subsistence practices associated with the major cultural transitions following the arrival of Islamic rule. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis was carried out on bone collagen from the Islamic cemetery (ca. AD 950–1150) population excavated at 33 Bartomeu Vicent Ramon, Ibiza, including human (n = 42) and faunal remains (n = 3). Stable oxygen and carbon isotope analysis was also undertaken on human tooth enamel carbonate (n = 6), and six humans were directly radiocarbon dated, confirming the presence of two distinct burial phases. The collagen results emphasise a C3-based diet, with variable but generally minor contributions from marine and/or C4 foods. However, the enamel carbonate results indicate a far greater importance of C4 crops than suggested by the collagen results, contributing up to 40% of energy intake. In keeping with previous studies of the region and period, the dietary contribution of marine protein is probably limited. A small number of outliers in both collagen and carbonate isotope results are identified, suggesting the presence of individuals originating elsewhere. The results are compared with those from previous investigations on the Balearics and the Spanish mainland, highlighting the complexity of factors—both cultural and methodological—affecting inter-regional dietary investigation.

“To ‘seafood’ or not to ‘seafood’?” An isotopic perspective on dietary preferences at the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition in the Western Mediterranean

Stable isotope investigations of the Prehistory of the Western Mediterranean have increased exponentially during the last decade. This region has a high number of Mesolithic and Neolithic carbon and nitrogen isotope ratio data available compared with other world areas, resulting from the interest in the “transition” between hunter-gathering and farming. This type of analysis is important as one of the few tools that give direct information on the poorly understood dietary transition from hunter-gatherer to agro-pastoralist subsistence in the Mediterranean Basin. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis on bulk collagen are especially useful for exploring marine vs. terrestrial protein input and therefore assess marine resource exploitation by these two different lifestyles. Gathering together all isotopic data for these chronologies we show that the Western Mediterranean underwent a unique/distinct Neolithisation process. These data show a gradual dietary shift in aquatic resource consumption during the transition to farming that contrasts to elsewhere in Europe.

Effect of a cod protein hydrolysate on postprandial glucose metabolism in healthy subjects: a double-blind cross-over trial.

The increased prevalence of lifestyle diseases, such as the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), calls for more knowledge on dietary treatments targeting the specific metabolic pathways involved in these conditions. Several studies have shown a protein preload before a meal to be effective in lowering the postprandial glycaemic response in healthy individuals and patients with T2DM. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of a marine protein hydrolysate (MPH) from Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) on postprandial glucose metabolism in healthy, middle-aged to elderly subjects. This double-blind cross-over trial (n 41) included two study days with 4-7 d wash-out in between. The intervention consisted of 20 mg of MPH (or casein as control) per kg body weight given before a breakfast meal. The primary outcome was postprandial response in glucose metabolism, measured by samples of serum glucose, insulin and plasma glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in 20 min intervals for 180 min. In a mixed-model regression analysis, no differences were observed between MPH and control for postprandial glucose concentration (mean difference: -0·04 (95 % CI -0·17, 0·09) mmol/l; P = 0·573) or GLP-1 concentration (mean difference between geometric means: 1·02 (95 % CI 0·99, 1·06) pmol/l; P = 0·250). The postprandial insulin concentration was significantly lower after MPH compared with control (mean difference between geometric means: 1·067 (95 % CI 1·01, 1·13) mIU/l; P = 0·032). Our findings demonstrate that a single dose of MPH before a breakfast meal reduces postprandial insulin secretion, without affecting blood glucose response or GLP-1 levels, in healthy individuals. Further studies with repeated dosing and in target groups with abnormal glucose control are warranted.

Stable Isotopes, Chronology, and Bayesian Models for the Viking Archaeology of North-East Iceland

ABSTRACTThis paper reviews the results of a long-term research project that used stable isotope analyses (δ13C, δ15N, δ34S) and Bayesian mixing models to better model the chronology for a presumed Viking Age cemetery at Hofstaðir, near Lake Mývatn in north-east Iceland. δ13C and radiocarbon dating indicated that many of the individuals consumed a large amount of marine protein, which results in a marine reservoir effect (MRE), making ages older than expected. In addition to the MRE, geological activity in the region has the potential to introduce massive quantities of radioactive ‘dead’ carbon into the freshwater system, resulting in a very large freshwater reservoir effect (FRE) that can offset radiocarbon ages on the order of a few thousand years. The radiocarbon dates of organisms that derive an unknown proportion of their carbon from both marine and freshwater reservoirs are extremely difficult to ‘correct’, or, more appropriately, model. The research not only highlights the complexities of dealing with multiple reservoirs, but also how important it is to develop models that are temporally and geographically relevant to the site under study. Finally, it shows how this data can be used to inform the development of chronological models for refining the dating for archaeological activity.

Re-approaching palaeodiet in the Andes: use and application of sulphur isotope analysis in reconstructing Peruvian palaeodiet

This research critically examines palaeodietary analyses in ancient Peru. Research is often approached using ceramics, flora, and faunal remains to examine human diet and behaviour prior to written records however these remains may not be indicative of items used exclusively for subsistence. More directed approaches employ stable isotope analyses of human remains as these data can provide direct indication of foods consumed during life. Peruvian isotope studies focus on 13C-enrichment patterns, and follow the premise that maize (corn) was the main source of 13C-enrichment recorded in bone collagen. Recent studies in Peru have identified other dietary sources that cause similar enrichment patterns, including kiwicha (pseudocereal), marine protein (e.g. shellfish, fish, and seals), and mococho (seaweed). As a result, additional methodologies must be employed to more sufficiently identify sources of subsistence in ancient Peru. I propose that stable sulphur isotope methodology may be used to overcome the issues presented. By critically reviewing previous palaeodietary analyses of Peru I examine current limitations and overview the application potential of carbon and nitrogen isotope studies complemented with sulphur isotope analysis of human and faunal remains within a Peruvian context. Ultimately I advocate for a more comprehensive approach to Peruvian palaeodiet.

Archaeodiet in the Greek World: Dietary Reconstruction from Stable Isotope Analysis

Archaeodiet in the Greek World: Dietary Reconstruction from Stable Isotope Analysis

Direction of trade and changing pattern of indian marine products exports

The present study was initiated with the objective of analyzing the export performance of marine products in India. The study is based on the secondary data i.e., quantity of export of marine products from 2005-06 to 2014-15 compiled from official website of Marine Products Export Development Authority of India. The structural change and direction of trade in marine products was analyzed using Markov Chain approach. The Cumulative Annual Growth Rate of export of marine products from India in volume and value terms is positive with 8.67 and 19.58 per cent during the period from 2005-06 to 2014-15. The increased export growth in marine products is mainly attributed its increasing demand from animal and human consumption, food processing as well as alternative purposes such as cosmetics, fishmeal and fish oil, bio active compounds, pharmaceuticals, marine protein and food processing aids and bi-products are used for valuable ornamentals. European Union, South East Asia and China are the stable importer of Indian marine products as reflected by the highest probability of retention was 79, 78 and 74 per cent respectively. Therefore, efforts are needed to promote exports to these countries by stabilizing the markets by supplying quality marine products and make its price competitive in the international market.

Improving phenolic bioactive-linked anti-hyperglycemic functions of dark germinated barley sprouts (Hordeum vulgare L.) using seed elicitation strategy.

Sprouts of cereal grains, such as barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), are a good source of beneficial phenolic bioactives. Such health relevant phenolic bioactives of cereal sprouts can be targeted to manage chronic hyperglycemia and oxidative stress commonly associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Therefore improving phenolic bioactives by stimulating plant endogenous defense responses such as protective pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) during sprouting has significant merit. Based on this metabolic rationale, this study aimed to enhance phenolic bioactives and associated antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functions in dark germinated barley sprouts using exogenous elicitor treatments. Dark-germinated sprouts of two malting barley cultivars (Pinnacle and Celebration), treated with chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) and marine protein hydrolysate (GP), were evaluated. Total soluble phenolic content (TSP), phenolic acid profiles, total antioxidant activity (TA) and in vitro inhibitory activities of hyperglycemia relevant α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes of the dark germinated barley sprouts were evaluated at day 2, 4, and 6 post elicitor treatments. Overall, TSP content, TA, and α-amylase inhibitory activity of dark germinated barley sprouts decreased, while α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and gallic acid content increased from day 2 to day 6. Among barley cultivars, high phenolic antioxidant-linked anti-hyperglycemic bioactives were observed in Celebration. Furthermore, GP and COS seed elicitor treatments in selective doses improved T2D relevant phenolic-linked anti-hyperglycemic bioactives of barley spouts at day 6. Therefore, such seed elicitation approach can be strategically used to develop bioactive enriched functional food ingredients from cereal sprouts targeting chronic hyperglycemia and oxidative stress linked to T2D.

Mapping the global potential for marine aquaculture

Marine aquaculture presents an opportunity for increasing seafood production in the face of growing demand for marine protein and limited scope for expanding wild fishery harvests. However, the global capacity for increased aquaculture production from the ocean and the relative productivity potential across countries are unknown. Here, we map the biological production potential for marine aquaculture across the globe using an innovative approach that draws from physiology, allometry and growth theory. Even after applying substantial constraints based on existing ocean uses and limitations, we find vast areas in nearly every coastal country that are suitable for aquaculture. The development potential far exceeds the space required to meet foreseeable seafood demand; indeed, the current total landings of all wild-capture fisheries could be produced using less than 0.015% of the global ocean area. This analysis demonstrates that suitable space is unlikely to limit marine aquaculture development and highlights the role that other factors, such as economics and governance, play in shaping growth trajectories. We suggest that the vast amount of space suitable for marine aquaculture presents an opportunity for countries to develop aquaculture in a way that aligns with their economic, environmental and social objectives.

Efficacy Assessment of a Nutraceutical with a Marine Protein Complex in the Reduction of Female Telogen EffluviumEfficacy Assessment of a Nutraceutical with a Marine Protein Complex in the Reduction of Female Telogen Effluvium

Efficacy Assessment of a Nutraceutical with a Marine Protein Complex in the Reduction of Female Telogen EffluviumEfficacy Assessment of a Nutraceutical with a Marine Protein Complex in the Reduction of Female Telogen Effluvium

Scientific analysis of a preserved head of hair at Romsey Abbey, UK

This paper presents the results of a scientific investigation on a preserved head of hair, discovered in 1839 inside a lead coffin beneath the Norman Abbey of Romsey (Hampshire, UK). Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) radiocarbon dating, modelled to account for dietary marine protein intake indicated by stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N), suggests that this individual died between 895–1123calAD (95.4% probability). A wooden ‘pillow’ found supporting the hair produced a date of 895–1016calAD (95.4% probability). These results suggest that this burial dates from the end of the ninth century to the early twelfth century, placing it in the late Saxon or immediately post-Conquest era. Analysis by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) of residue adhering to the hair surface indicates the presence of Pinacea resin, deriving either from funerary ritual or hair care during life.

Reconstructing diet at the Neolithic stalled cairn of the Knowe of Rowiegar, Rousay, Orkney, using stable isotope analysis

In this study, human remains from the Neolithic stalled cairn of the Knowe of Rowiegar, Rousay, Orkney (3620–2880cal BC, 95.4% probability), were analysed for bone collagen stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios in order to determine the dietary adaptations of individuals buried at the site, particularly the contribution of marine protein in the diet. Collagen was extracted from bone from 13 individuals (11 males, 1 female, and 1 sub-adult), and stable isotope data generated were compared with previously-published Neolithic Orcadian faunal data, and with human and animal bone collagen isotope data from other published British Neolithic sites. The results from the Knowe of Rowiegar suggest that the dietary protein of those buried at the site was largely terrestrial in origin, which is similar to other British Neolithic bone collagen datasets, albeit with the possible minor inclusion of marine protein. Intra-group comparison highlights the potentially different dietary habits of the single female and sub-adult individuals sampled from the site compared to the interred males. Geographical variations in both humans and animals (particularly in nitrogen isotope ratios) across Britain are examined, and the consumption of marine fish and the influence of herbivore baseline variability in the study of Neolithic human diet are explored.

Integrating the Concept of Resilience into an Ecosystem Approach to Bivalve Aquaculture Management

Bivalve aquaculture has become increasingly important for marine protein production and is an alternative to exploiting natural resources. Its further and sustainable development should follow an ecosystem approach, to maintain both biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The identification of critical thresholds to development remains difficult. The present work aims at combining the calculation of the system’s ecological carrying capacity (ECC) with the ecosystem view of resilience for a bay system exposed to bivalve (scallop) aquaculture. Using a trophic food-web model, a stepwise further expansion of culture activities was simulated, and the impact on the system was evaluated twofold: First, a recently developed approach to estimating ECC was used, and second, a resilience indicator was calculated, which is based on the distribution of consumption flows within the trophic network (sensu Arreguin-Sanchez in Ecol Model 272: 27–276, 2014). Results suggest that a culture expansion beyond present-day scale would (a) cause a shift in community composition towards a system dominated by secondary consumers, (b) lead to the loss of system compartments, affecting ecosystem functioning, and (c) result in a decrease in resilience, emphasizing the need to regulate aquaculture activities. The applicability and potential of this presented method in the context of an ecosystem-based approach to aquaculture is discussed. This work aims at adding to the ongoing discussion on sustainable bivalve aquaculture and is expected to help guide aquaculture management.

The influence of varying proportions of terrestrial and marine dietary protein on the stable carbon-isotope compositions of pig tissues from a controlled feeding experiment

ABSTRACTIn recent years, it has become evident that limitations exist in our ability to meaningfully assess palaeodiet using stable isotope compositions. These limitations in part arise because many of the fundamental assumptions about tissue-diet relationships are poorly understood. In order to redress this deficiency, a controlled feeding experiment was undertaken to define the impact of terrestrial- vs. marine-derived dietary protein consumption on consumer tissue carbon isotopic compositions (δ13C). Two generations of pigs were raised on one of five feeds with varying proportions of terrestrial (soy) and marine (fish meal) protein. A comprehensive range of tissues and fluids from 49 pigs was submitted for δ13C analysis.The observed tissue–whole diet and tissue–dietary protein carbon isotopic offsets were found to be highly dependent on the percentage of marine protein in diet. We suggest that the trend in δ13C offsets most likely derives from the increased routing of non-essential amino acids, especially glycine, with the increasing proportion of marine protein in the diet. These findings demonstrate that solely using bulk δ13C compositions not only masks considerable information about diet, but may also lead to erroneous representations of marine and terrestrial resource consumption in the past.

Sulphur-isotope compositions of pig tissues from a controlled feeding study

ABSTRACTSulphur-isotope determinations are becoming increasingly useful for palaeodietary reconstruction, but knowledge of isotopic discrimination between diet and various tissues remains inadequate. In this study, we explore the sensitivity of δ34Stissue values to changes in δ34Sdiet values, sulphur isotopic discrimination between diet and consumer, and the potential impact of terrestrial vs. marine protein consumption on these discrimination offsets. We present new δ34S values of bone collagen, muscle, liver, hair, milk and faeces from ten mature sows, ten piglets and fifteen adolescent pigs from a controlled feeding study. The δ34Stissue values were found to co-vary with the δ34Sdiet values, the δ34Stissue – δ34Sdiet isotopic offsets (Δ34Stissue-diet) are small but consistent, and dietary protein source does not systematically alter the Δ34Stissue-diet isotopic discrimination. The outcomes of this study are of particular relevance to questions that are difficult to resolve using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes alone, and will also be useful in regions where terrestrial, freshwater, and marine resources could have all potentially contributed to human diet.

Strontium concentration, radiogenic (87Sr/86Sr) and stable (δ88Sr) strontium isotope systematics in a controlled feeding study

ABSTRACTTranshumance and palaeodiet are two central themes in archaeology and using chemical analysis of bones and teeth to reconstruct trends and patterns in diet and mobility has become a cornerstone of bioarchaeology. This study has investigated strontium concentration ([Sr]), radiogenic (87Sr/86Sr) and stable strontium (δ88Sr) isotope systematics in a controlled feeding experiment on domestic pigs designed to simulate terrestrial versus marine protein consumption. The results of the radiogenic (87Sr/86Sr) analysis offer a validation of the strontium isotope methodology. The study confirms that the radiogenic strontium isotope composition of dental enamel does represent the radiogenic strontium isotope composition of the diet. The results of the δ88Sr analysis have revealed a distinct shift of 0.322 ± 0.060 ‰ towards isotopically light Sr with trophic level. The magnitude of this shift is consistent with the predictions from the analogous shift observed in calcium isotopes. This is the first time that trophic level fractionation in δ88Sr has been identified in a controlled setting. Although still in its infancy, δ88Sr analysis has great potential to inform on trophic level systematics, to investigate dietary trends in early life and is potentially useful in examining diagenetic alteration.

Effects of enzymatic hydrolysate from seahorse Hippocampus abdominalis on testosterone secretion from TM3 Leydig cells and in male mice

Protein hydrolysates, the so-called bioactive peptides, are specific protein fragments that have positive effects on several body functions and may improve human health. Marine organism-derived protein hydrolysates and bioactive peptides have shown to possess many physiological functions. Seahorses, used in traditional medicine, are generally ground to powder form either for direct application or for application following dissolution in warm water. In this present study, we purified, hydrolyzed, and characterized two bioactive peptides (ALC and PEP) obtained from seahorse (Hippocampus abdominalis). The hydrolysates derived from seahorse significantly upregulated the expression of cyclin D and cyclin E and increased cell proliferation and testosterone level in the TM3 mouse Leydig cell line. These findings suggest that the hydrolysates stimulate the proliferation of TM3 cells via the AKT, ERK, and JNK pathways. The decline in the circulating testosterone levels in older men is associated with various adverse health effects. Following daily intake of hydrolysates for 12 weeks, the circulating level of testosterone and the sperm count in mice were measured. We found increased sperm motility (sperm count) as well as an increase in the testosterone level in male mice following a 12-week intake of hydrolysates derived from H. abdominalis. Hence, it can be suggested that seahorse-derived hydrolysates play an important role in improving male health by improving the serum testosterone level.