Beta-Casomorphin

β-casomorphins (BCMs) are a class of peptides that are formed during the digestion of β-casein. They range in length from 4 to 11 amino acids and have abilities similar to opioid or morphin. Because of its capacity to exhibit opioid activity, BCM was initially purified from the casein digest of guinea pig ileum. Bovine BCM-4, BCM-5, BCM-6, BCM-7, BCM-8, and BCM-11 are among the numerous types of BCM, as are human BCM-7 and BCM-8.

It is unknown what the exact mechanism of BCM. They function as opioids by binding to opioid receptors on cell membranes. According to research, there is a strong binding force between BCM-7 and angiotensin receptor in brain. BCM has multiple functions:

1) Impact on the gastrointestinal tract. Post prandial metabolism was influenced by BCMs stimulate the secretion of insulin and somatostatin. Besides, BCMs also regulate the transfer of amino acids in the intestine.

2) Affect hypoxia. Female rats were given BCM7, which induced recovery from hypoxia.

3) Rotational behavior in rats is produced by BCM-5 and analogues.

4) BCMs have been linked to a number of diseases, including SIDS and childhood autism.