Exploring the interaction between myofibrillar proteins and pyrazine compounds: Based on molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and multi-spectroscopy techniques

Flavor is one of the most important factors that affect consumers' preference for processed meat products. This study aimed to investigate effects of heating on interaction between myofibrillar proteins (MPs) and pyrazine compounds and understand the underlying mechanisms. A combination of multispectral, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics technologies was used to achieve study's aim. Results demonstrated that MPs underwent structural reconstruction and expansion during heating, which significantly altered surface hydrophobicity and SH content. MPs' zeta potential reduced from −7.29 to −10.47 when a short heating time. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between β-sheet content and ability of MPs to adsorb pyrazine compounds. Molecular docking analysis revealed 13 binding sites for pyrazines and MPs. Furthermore, amino acid residues and pyrazine compounds were found to interact by four different forms of forces, primarily van der Waals forces, carbon‑hydrogen bonds, alkyl groups, and π-alkyl groups. Obtained results demonstrated that adequate or optimized heat treatment could expose more binding sites, hence enhancing the binding of MPs to pyrazine compounds. This study may be used to better understand how structural changes in MPs during processing affect MPs' capacity to bind flavor substances, which can help improve flavor of processed meats to encourage their consumption.