Unlocking the potential of edible bird's nest as a novel source of bioactive peptides through various glycoprotein hydrolysis method: A review

Bioactive peptides are chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds and arranged in a specific way that can provide health benefits to humans. The growing interest in these peptides has led to the exploration of bioactive peptides from different food sources. Edible bird's nest (EBN) is emerging as a promising source of bioactive peptides owing to its rich glycoprotein composition. However, the complexity of the EBN glycoprotein structure poses challenges because bioactive peptides are in an inactive form within the parent glycoprotein. This review elucidates the structure of EBN glycoproteins, comprising a polypeptide backbone with numerous polysaccharide chains attached via O-linked and N-linked glycosidic bonds. The potential of EBN as a source of bioactive peptides was explored through various hydrolysis methods, such as heat extraction, solvent extraction, enzymatic hydrolysis and instrumental-assisted extraction, which have successfully release various bioactive peptides with enhanced bioactivity. Overall, this review emphasises the potential of EBN as a source for novel bioactive peptides and highlights the importance of various glycoprotein hydrolysis methods in unlocking their bioactivity. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.