Alpha-casozepine
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Product Description
Alpha-casozepine (α-Casozepine) is a bioactive decapeptide (YGLGPEVLGR) derived from the tryptic hydrolysis of the αs1-casein fragment in bovine milk, specifically residues 91-100. This peptide exhibits calming and anti-anxiety properties by interacting with the benzodiazepine sites of the GABA-A receptor, similar to benzodiazepines but without their associated side effects such as dependence or habituation. Alpha-casozepine is being investigated as a natural anxiolytic agent and is sometimes included in nutraceuticals or veterinary calming products. Recent studies suggest that its anxiolytic effects may be enhanced by neurosteroids, which also interact with GABA-A receptors. Additionally, innovative delivery systems, such as film-nanoparticle composites, are being developed to improve its oral bioavailability and absorption across both buccal and intestinal epithelia.
Synthesis Methods
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Enzymatic Hydrolysis: Produced by the enzymatic digestion of α<sub>-casein using trypsin, a digestive enzyme found in the stomach.
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Commercial Production: Typically synthesized through controlled enzymatic hydrolysis of casein in industrial settings to ensure consistent quality and purity.
Uses
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Stress and Anxiety Relief: Used in nutraceuticals and functional foods to reduce stress and anxiety in humans and animals.
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Sleep Aid: Incorporated into products designed to improve sleep quality and reduce the time taken to fall asleep.
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Pet Calming Products: A popular ingredient in calming chews, supplements, and diets for dogs and cats to manage noise phobia, separation anxiety, and travel stress.
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Veterinary Applications: Studied and used in diets and supplements to reduce anxiety-related behaviors in pets, such as excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, and inappropriate elimination.
Properties and Characteristics
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Molecular Formula: C₆₀H₉₄N₁₄O₁₆
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Molar Mass: 1267.5 g/mol
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Amino Acid Sequence: Tyr-Gly-Leu-Gly-Pro-Glu-Val-Leu-Gly-Arg (YGLGPEVLGR)
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Natural Origin: Derived from the enzymatic digestion of α<sub>-casein in cow’s milk.
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Mechanism of Action: Acts on GABA<sub> receptors in the brain, potentiating the effect of GABA, leading to a calming effect. It mimics the action of benzodiazepines but with a milder and natural profile.
Safety Profile
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GRAS Status: Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA due to its natural origin and lack of significant side effects.
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Non-Sedative: Does not cause dependency or significant side effects associated with pharmaceutical anxiolytics.
Clinical Studies and Evidence
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Human Studies: Clinical trials have shown its efficacy in reducing anxiety-like behavior in humans.
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Animal Studies: Demonstrated effectiveness in reducing anxiety and improving behavior in dogs and cats, particularly in managing separation anxiety and noise phobia.
Regulatory and Safety Information
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GRAS Status: Recognized as safe for use in food and supplements by regulatory bodies such as the FDA.
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Clinical Trials: Multiple studies have demonstrated its safety and efficacy in both human and animal models.