β-Lactoglobulin (βLg) as the most abundant whey protein in ruminant milk and as a useful model protein is the subject of countless biophysical studies in the literature, yet its physiological role is hitherto unknown. This chapter deals with studies that focus on the structure of βLg, its oligomeric behaviour and the interactions that this protein participates in. These and further studies are necessary to understand how the protein’s physicochemical properties may influence the processing, digestion and immunogenicity of ruminant milks and their products. However, there is also a need for research into the interactions that occur naturally between βLg and other components in milk, as this may give us insight into the physiological role of the protein.
Milk Proteins: From Structure to Biological Properties and Health Aspects
ISBN
9789535125372
Citation
Crowther, J. M., Jameson, G. B., Hodgkinson, A. J., & Dobson, R. C. J. (2016). Structure, oligomerisation and interactions of β-Lactoglobulin. In I. Gigli (Ed.), Milk proteins: from structure to biological properties and health aspects (pp. 33-50). Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/62992