Effects of gelatin-based antifreeze peptides on cell viability and oxidant stress of Streptococcus thermophilus during cold stage

Cold stage adversely affects cell proliferation and cell viability of probiotics such as Streptococcus thermophilus in food industry, new type of cryoprotectants continues to be needed. Gelatin-based antifreeze peptide becomes a popular topic because of its cryoprotective effects on cold-stressed probiotics. In this study the effects of tilapia scales antifreeze peptides (TSAPP) on cell viability and oxidant stress of S. thermophilus during cold stage were investigated. The results showed that the percentage of viable cells was increased 10.85 folds compared with control groups. Addition of TSAPP activated the activities of ATPases, relieved the hyperpolarization of cell membrane potential and regulated the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Furthermore, TSAPP significantly inhibited reactive oxygen species level and malonaldehyde content in cells. Under cryopreservation with TSAPP, cells of S. thermophilus maintained higher activities of antioxidant enzymes including catalase, peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity. These findings indicate that TSAPP likely offered its cellular protection by maintaining membrane integrity and alleviation of oxidative stress.