Co-Authors:
Silanikove, N., Department of Ruminant Physiology, Institute of Animal Science, Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
Merin, U., Department of Food Science, Institute of Technology and Storage of Agricultural, Products, Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
Leitner, G., National Mastitis Reference Center, Kimron Veterinary Institute, P.O.B. 12, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
Abstract:
Over 60 indigenous enzymes have been identified so far in the milk of various mammalian species. The vast majority of research in this area has focused on their use as indicators of processing (mainly pasteurization), contribution to dairy product quality and investigating the factors that affect their level in milk. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of data accumulated during the last 5 years, mostly for bovine and human milk, which shows that milk indigenous enzymes play a key role in regulating lactogenesis, e.g., inducing active involution, and that they are essential components of antioxidation and the innate immune system of milk. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.