Grant: Idea to Innovation

Our previous work has isolated a bioactive pea protein hydrolysate (PPH) from the seeds of Canadian-grown yellow field peas. Oral administration to spontaneously hypertensive rats and human subjects reduced systolic blood pressure by up to 20 and 10 mmHg, respectively. Based on the animal and human studies we have concluded that the PPH is potential therapeutic agent against hypertension. In order to advance the PPH towards successful commercialization, we need to prove that it can be produced on large-scale suitable for technology transfer to the industry. Also, due to the potential bitter flavour of food protein hydrolysates, we must show that incorporation of the product into beverages can be optimized without reducing efficacy or potency of the product. Therefore, the objectives of the proposal are to develop a pilot plant scale-up method for producing PPH and to deetermine optimal levels of beverage formulations containing the PPH. Pilot plant scale-up will be performed by contract in one of the foremost industrial facilities with every step optimized for producing kilogram quantities of the product. Beverage (orange and apple juices) formulations that contain PPH at various levels will be tested for bitterness using a human sensory test panel in addition to an electronic tongue instrument. The PPH is unique when compared to existing antihypertensive drugs and natural products because of its ability to reduce activity of renin and cause reduction in blood pressure. Currently, only one renin-inhibitor drug (Aliskiren) has been approved for human use but then it cannot be prescribed for patients with kidney diseases. In contrast the PPH had no damaging effects on the kidney when tested in a rat chronic kidney disease model. An extensive market evaluation showed that the antihypertensive agent market is worth close to $30 billion in global sales. Coupled with the high profit margin of functional foods when compared to traditional foods, we propose that the PPH will be attractive for industry adoption and successful marketing. Benefits to Canada include high economic returns from the share of the huge antihypertensive market as well as indirect benefits such as reduced human cost associated with the high incidence of cardiovascular diseases.