Natural variation in casein composition of milk

Research output: Thesisinternal PhD, WU

Abstract

Bovine milk contains 3-4 % protein and almost 80% of the milk protein fraction consist of four caseins; αs1-casein, β-casein, αs2-casein and κ-casein. Most of the caseins in milk are assembled in casein micelles, which consist of several thousands of individual casein molecules and salts. The unique structure of casein micelles allows the delivery of large amounts of calcium and phosphate to the neonate. Considerable natural variation in casein content and composition exists between milk samples from individual cows, however the impact of these variations on casein micelle structure and technological properties of dairy products are largely unknown. This study showed that the expression of caseins and their post-translational modification as well as inclusion of calcium in casein micelles are well-balanced processes. Analysis of the genetic background of phosphorylation of αs1-casein with eight or nine phosphate groupsshowed that αs1-casein phosphorylation was regulated by a different set of genes. Also, variation in αs1-casein phosphorylation resulted in changes in the core of casein micelles and was associated with a difference in degradation efficiency by chymosin in milk gels. Another post-translational modification, glycosylation of κ-casein, resulted in changes in the surface of casein micelles. Natural variation in αs1-CN phosphorylationand glycosylation of κ-casein are both relevant factors to consider for optimization of dairy products and the design of future breeding strategies.

Original languageEnglish
QualificationDoctor of Philosophy
Awarding Institution
  • Wageningen University
Supervisors/Advisors
  • van Hooijdonk, Toon, Promotor
  • Huppertz, T., Co-promotor, External person
  • van Valenberg, Hein, Co-promotor
Award date23 May 2014
Place of PublicationWageningen
Publisher
Print ISBNs9789461739445
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 May 2014

Keywords

  • milk
  • casein
  • milk composition
  • variation

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