ACE-inhibitory properties and antioxidative activities of hydrolysate powder obtained from Thai's mature silkworm (Bombyx mori)

This study aimed to optimise the production of silkworm hydrolysate powder (SHP) from Thai's mature silkworm with potent ACE inhibition properties using commercial protease enzymes. Thai's mature silkworm (TMS) powder was hydrolysed with Alcalase (R) 2.4 L, Neutrase (R) 0.8 L and Flavourzyme (R) 500MG at varying enzyme concentrations and temperatures. The most effective method for ACE inhibition was found with Alcalase (R) 2.4 L at 5% concentration (w/w) of protein content in TMS powder, at 60 C-degrees for 1 h. This condition also resulted in the highest SHP production and protein content, outperforming other enzyme treatments. Moreover, it exhibited significant total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity including DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging. This finding establishes a foundation for scaling up the production of Thai's mature SHP to a commercial level. The resulting product can be utilised as a functional ingredient, functional food or therapeutic food for managing high blood pressure.