**2.1 Legume seeds**

The nutritional composition of legume proteins makes it different and useful in food products. Berman et al. [13], in his book chapter focused on the health benefits of legume seeds as potential nutraceutical and also explained the prevention and treatment of certain diseases such as cardiac diseases, diabetes, gastrointestinal infections, obesity, cancer, skin related problems using legumes in diet. Legume seeds also contain resistant proteins that play an active role in human health [14]. Legume seeds contain enzyme inhibitors like alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) for which it can be used as a nutraceutical's molecule. Information on legumes grain, presented by FAO (1966), shows consumption to be high in many countries. The popularity of legumes is based on many factors, including their capacity to fix nitrogen to produce a grain containing a high level of protein of a quality which complements the inadequacies of cereal protein. All legume seed proteins are relatively low in sulphur-containing amino acids and tryptophan, but the amounts of another essential amino acid, lysine, are much greater than in cereal grains [15]. Legume seeds such as pea and beans contain 18– 20% protein and lupin, soyabean contains 30–35% protein. Variable proteins in legumes shows antifungal, anti-viral, anti-HIV and anti-diabeteic properties, also these proteins are precursors of amino acids which are beneficial to human health [16]. The proteins present in *vigna species*, show anti-fungal and anti-viral activities. Ground beans lectin acts as hemagglutinating agent due to presence of polygalacturonic acid and also curative agent of Hepatoma (HepG2), Leukemia (L1210) and Leukemia (M1). Presence of all these special and beneficial properties makes them excellent drugs for the treatment of AIDS with no harmful effects as compare to synthetic drugs [17]. Beans, chickpeas, lentils, tofu and low-fat dairy products are also good sources of protein, as well as other health-enhancing nutrients like antioxidants and fibers (**Figure 2**).

#### **2.2 Cereals**

Grains and seeds, provide not only the major portion of the energy for human populations throughout the world, but also play an important role of nutritive and pharmaceutical carriers. These are filled with nutrients vitamins, proteins, minerals, fibers and essential trace elements which grow nutraceutical values and pharmaceutical applications. To increase the human health awareness, we must have to enlighten the importance of easily available seeds and grains in our food. The cereal grains like rice, wheat and corn are staple foods in several parts of the world.

making oatmeal a great choice for heart health. Choosing a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast is a great way to keep our heart healthy while increasing protein intake. In maize seeds 10% proteins are there and out of these 10% nearly 70% of them are categorized as storage proteins [22]. Albumins, globulins, glutamines, and prolamins are four groups of proteins based on their solubility. The protein of maize grain varieties contains nearly two times lysine and tryptophan, AAs that are essential for humans and monogastric animals. These two AA allow the body to synthesize complete proteins, thereby eliminating wet-malnutrition, moreover Trp can be converted in the body to niacin, which is supposed to reduce the incidence of

*Nutraceutical Potential of Seed and Grain Proteins in Health Promotion*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96287*

Among cereals rice has lowest protein content (7%), bran layers and embryo are wealthier in non-starch constituent than the milled (white) rice. Protein from rice reduces both cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in the liver, suppressing ability of fatty acid synthase, G6PD and MDH in liver and enhancing those of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase [23]. Rice protein is also rich in Gln, Asn like other cereal

Major AAs present in Teff (*Eragrostis tef*) are Glu, Ala, Pro, Asp, Leu, Val, whereas Mat, Phe, His and Arg are essentially higher in Teff than other cereals, except rice and oats. The balance between essential AAs is similar to the whole edible portion of egg protein, except for its lower Lys content. The overall AA profile of Teff can be regarded as well balanced. Teff is different from other cereals in having higher albumins, globulins and its protein which is essentially free from gluten found in wheat so demand of Teff grain foods are increasing and become

Protein content of sorghum grain is quite variable, ranging from 7 to 16% with an average of 11% approximately. The key proteins are prolamin (storage proteins) as present in all other cereal grains, are called as 'Kafirins' [25]. On the basis of differences in MW, solubility, structure, AA composition and sequence, Kafirins are classified into four major species. Kafirins have low nutritional quality because they have very less quantity of essential AA, particularly lysine [26]. They are poorly digestible, especially when cooked in water, as occurs during most food preparation

Nowadays, crops are turning into factories which don't produce food but also participating in the production of monoclonal antibodies, drugs, vaccines and enzymes. For the production of protein which are pharmaceutical active firstly we have to synthesize/isolate the genes that are responsible for pharmaceutical proteins and transformation of those genes into the desired crops then transfer of those genes into the DNA of desired crops. Different plant species, an animal (a human being) or a bacterium can be the sources of these genes or transgene which are to be transferred into the desired host. The genetically modified crops are then cultivated, harvested and pharmaceutical protein produced by crop is extracted, purified and

Cereals such as Rice (*Oryza sativa*), Wheat (*Triticum vulgare*) and Maize (*Zea mays*) are pharmaceutical crops and the major staple food consumed by half of the population globally. Rice seeds have recently gained attention as bioreactors in the production of human pharmaceuticals such as medicinal proteins or peptides. Rice seed production stages have beneficial over animal cell or microbe systems as it is more economic, scalable, safe and productive. Human pharmaceuticals based on rice seed are predictable to become inventive therapies as edible drugs. Therapeutic proteins can be divided into cellular components in rice seeds and secured to harsh areas of the stomach [28]. A high nutritive value of maize [29] bound up a valuable book chapter which explains the nutritive agents of macro and micro quantity and their

important for consumers who are allergic to gluten found in wheat [24].

modified prior it is given to humans or livestock [5, 6].

Pellagra.

proteins.

processes [27].

**23**

**Figure 2.** *Legume Seeds.*

Wheat is the key source of nutrition for many organisms and wheat proteins are one of the extremely used dietary proteins globally. Gliadins and glutenin are the foremost storage proteins of wheat and are deposited in distinct protein bodies in the starchy endosperm cells of the developing grain. The protein part of wheat accounts for up to 80% of the total grain nitrogen (**Figure 3**) [18].

Shewry and Tatham, in 1990 [19] reported the presence of prolamins in grains such as wheat, corn, rice and oats which are nutritious and healthy proteins to promote growth because the complete AA sequence of all major protein groups allowed for the redefine of their classification in relation to organizational and evolutionary relationships. The stored seed proteins are secreted and stored in separate protein bodies. However, the origins of the protein bodies and the mechanisms that regulate the transfer and transfer of proteins are still partially understood but the physical stability within the Golgi appears to be important, leading to the formation of electron dense clusters forming the contents of dense vesicles. The final protein Globulin contains understandable pro-domains that provide vacuolar targeting, but the inaccessible components within the sequence of mature proteins may be significant [20]. Oats are a hearty, gluten-free and inexpensive cereal.

Whitehead et al. [21] reported, much higher in protein in oats than other grains. A 1/2-cup (78-gram) serving provides 13 g of protein. Oats are high in vitamins and minerals, plus contain a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Studies have shown that foods rich in beta-glucan may help reduce LDL and total cholesterol levels,

**Figure 3.** *Cereals.*

#### *Nutraceutical Potential of Seed and Grain Proteins in Health Promotion DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96287*

making oatmeal a great choice for heart health. Choosing a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast is a great way to keep our heart healthy while increasing protein intake.

In maize seeds 10% proteins are there and out of these 10% nearly 70% of them are categorized as storage proteins [22]. Albumins, globulins, glutamines, and prolamins are four groups of proteins based on their solubility. The protein of maize grain varieties contains nearly two times lysine and tryptophan, AAs that are essential for humans and monogastric animals. These two AA allow the body to synthesize complete proteins, thereby eliminating wet-malnutrition, moreover Trp can be converted in the body to niacin, which is supposed to reduce the incidence of Pellagra.

Among cereals rice has lowest protein content (7%), bran layers and embryo are wealthier in non-starch constituent than the milled (white) rice. Protein from rice reduces both cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels in the liver, suppressing ability of fatty acid synthase, G6PD and MDH in liver and enhancing those of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase [23]. Rice protein is also rich in Gln, Asn like other cereal proteins.

Major AAs present in Teff (*Eragrostis tef*) are Glu, Ala, Pro, Asp, Leu, Val, whereas Mat, Phe, His and Arg are essentially higher in Teff than other cereals, except rice and oats. The balance between essential AAs is similar to the whole edible portion of egg protein, except for its lower Lys content. The overall AA profile of Teff can be regarded as well balanced. Teff is different from other cereals in having higher albumins, globulins and its protein which is essentially free from gluten found in wheat so demand of Teff grain foods are increasing and become important for consumers who are allergic to gluten found in wheat [24].

Protein content of sorghum grain is quite variable, ranging from 7 to 16% with an average of 11% approximately. The key proteins are prolamin (storage proteins) as present in all other cereal grains, are called as 'Kafirins' [25]. On the basis of differences in MW, solubility, structure, AA composition and sequence, Kafirins are classified into four major species. Kafirins have low nutritional quality because they have very less quantity of essential AA, particularly lysine [26]. They are poorly digestible, especially when cooked in water, as occurs during most food preparation processes [27].

Nowadays, crops are turning into factories which don't produce food but also participating in the production of monoclonal antibodies, drugs, vaccines and enzymes. For the production of protein which are pharmaceutical active firstly we have to synthesize/isolate the genes that are responsible for pharmaceutical proteins and transformation of those genes into the desired crops then transfer of those genes into the DNA of desired crops. Different plant species, an animal (a human being) or a bacterium can be the sources of these genes or transgene which are to be transferred into the desired host. The genetically modified crops are then cultivated, harvested and pharmaceutical protein produced by crop is extracted, purified and modified prior it is given to humans or livestock [5, 6].

Cereals such as Rice (*Oryza sativa*), Wheat (*Triticum vulgare*) and Maize (*Zea mays*) are pharmaceutical crops and the major staple food consumed by half of the population globally. Rice seeds have recently gained attention as bioreactors in the production of human pharmaceuticals such as medicinal proteins or peptides. Rice seed production stages have beneficial over animal cell or microbe systems as it is more economic, scalable, safe and productive. Human pharmaceuticals based on rice seed are predictable to become inventive therapies as edible drugs. Therapeutic proteins can be divided into cellular components in rice seeds and secured to harsh areas of the stomach [28]. A high nutritive value of maize [29] bound up a valuable book chapter which explains the nutritive agents of macro and micro quantity and their

Wheat is the key source of nutrition for many organisms and wheat proteins are one of the extremely used dietary proteins globally. Gliadins and glutenin are the foremost storage proteins of wheat and are deposited in distinct protein bodies in the starchy endosperm cells of the developing grain. The protein part of wheat accounts

Shewry and Tatham, in 1990 [19] reported the presence of prolamins in grains such as wheat, corn, rice and oats which are nutritious and healthy proteins to promote growth because the complete AA sequence of all major protein groups allowed for the redefine of their classification in relation to organizational and evolutionary relationships. The stored seed proteins are secreted and stored in separate protein bodies. However, the origins of the protein bodies and the mechanisms that regulate the transfer and transfer of proteins are still partially understood but the physical stability within the Golgi appears to be important, leading to the formation of electron dense clusters forming the contents of dense vesicles. The final protein Globulin contains understandable pro-domains that provide vacuolar targeting, but the inaccessible components within the sequence of mature proteins may be significant [20]. Oats are a hearty, gluten-free and inexpensive cereal.

Whitehead et al. [21] reported, much higher in protein in oats than other grains. A 1/2-cup (78-gram) serving provides 13 g of protein. Oats are high in vitamins and minerals, plus contain a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. Studies have shown that foods rich in beta-glucan may help reduce LDL and total cholesterol levels,

for up to 80% of the total grain nitrogen (**Figure 3**) [18].

**Figure 2.** *Legume Seeds.*

*Grain and Seed Proteins Functionality*

**Figure 3.** *Cereals.*

**22**

effective health benefits to protects diseases. Maize is a good source of B-complex vitamins along with antioxidants such as different types of polyphenols [30].

protein, making them an exceptional choice for a protein-packed nosh. Along with a magnificent volume of protein, pumpkin seeds also contain antioxidants like vitamin E and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation in the body. (www.

*Nutraceutical Potential of Seed and Grain Proteins in Health Promotion*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96287*

Oilseed protein makes a significant influence to the human alimental protein ingestion. Furthermore, oilseeds are mostly richer in Sulphur AA than legumes, but minor in lysine except for rapeseed. The nourishing value of oilseed meals depends mainly on the oil extraction process. International dietary guidelines commend the intake for their contribution of proteins, and especially of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids as lessens the risk of chronic diseases. Back, [35] reported that Gproteins present in the oilseeds, plays a significant role in the synthesis of Omega-3 fatty acids which supports to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). There are a long list of oilseed and protein present (**Table 1**), these proteins are very beneficial to human and animal health.

• Grain and seed proteins are easily available and economic food to obtain the

• Grain protein concentration, usually stated in percent of grain dry mass.

• Proteins forms antibodies to protect our body against foreign invaders.

• Variations in grain protein concentration induced by weather, water and

**S.No. Oil seed Species Major Storage Protein**

nitrogen availability, especially during the grain-filling period.

 Canola (*Brassica* species) Cruciferin Corn (*Zea mays* L.) Zein Cottonseed (*Gossypium* species) 11S protein Flax (*Linum usitatissimum* L.) 12S protein Hemp (*Cannabis sativa* L.) 12S protein Peanut (*Arachis hypogaea* L.) Arachin Safflower *(Carthamus tinctorius* L.) Carmin Sesame (*Sesamum indicum) α*-globulin Soybean (*Glycine max)* Glycinin Sunflower (*Helianthus annuus)* Helianthin

*Oil-producing crops and the major storage proteins suitable for human consumption.*

• Proteins act as a buffer system, helps our body to maintain pH values of the

• The recommended protein intake for an adult is usually based on body size: 0.8

• In oilseeds, an upsurge in oil concentration is usually associated with a decrease

valuable dietary supplement protein for every person.

nutrition).

**2.4 Summary points**

blood and other body fluids.

in protein concentration.

**Table 1.**

**25**

grams per kilogram of body weight.

#### **2.3 Vegetable and oilseeds**

Oilseeds are rich source of protein and due to that these are high in demand in animal and human feed. In many of countries, the attention is on brassica crops, which comprises canola, rape and mustard. Oilseeds and their ingredients developed as resolute foods or as sources of nutraceuticals deliver benefits for consumers and diet processors. Sarwar et al. [31] reported a review article entitled "The role of oilseeds nutrition in human health: A critical review" in which the nutritional value of variable oilseeds was discussed and enlightens the nutraceutical potential of oilseeds. That article was focused on the key sorts of oilseeds, their role in human health and ailments, and high lightened the new progresses that may offer even more benefits in the future. Oilseed foods from soybean, peanut, rapeseed and flaxseed are rich in protein; when assorted with other components (cereal grains), and they deliver nutritionally balanced feedstuffs [32]. Mustard seeds and its oil have customarily been used to release muscular pain, rheumatism and arthritic pain. The mustard oil also very helpful in stimulating hair growth when applied over scalp also its ground seeds perform the role as a laxative, stimulant to gastric mucosa and surge intestinal secretion [33]. The Cucurbitaceae seeds such as *Cucumeropsis mannii*, *Cucurbita maxima*, *C. moschata*, *Lagenaria siceraria* and *Cucumis sativus* and their defatted cakes are rich in proteins hence these seeds can thus be measured as cores of proteins and oils (**Figure 4**) [34].

Oilseed rарe is а very valuable сrор аs the seed is naturally 42% oil and the meal роrt after eliminating the oil is аbоut 42% crude рrоtein. Proteins serve а variety of functions in the human body such as асting as enzymes, antibodies, and the structural соmроnents of tissues, hormones and blооd рrоtein. The main function of dietary рrоtein is tо suррly АА for the growth and maintenance of body tissue. Digestion disassembles proteins intо their bаsiс building blосks АА. Furthermоre, the оil is раrtiсulаrly оf high quаlity and high in monounsaturated, and should lоgiсаlly be а premium рrоduсt. Today's сertаin varieties of oilseed rарe have been bred to рrоvide oil that is suitable for use in сооking and fооd рrосessing. Known as vegetable oil, the оil is widely used by the fооd industry and is now being increasingly рrосessed for use аs biо-diesel [33].

Pumpkin seeds deliver a massive amount of nutrients in a very small package. Adding these budget-friendly seeds to your diet is a smart and healthy way to increase our protein consumption. Just 28 g of pumpkin seeds contains 7 g of

**Figure 4.** *Oilseeds.*

*Nutraceutical Potential of Seed and Grain Proteins in Health Promotion DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96287*

protein, making them an exceptional choice for a protein-packed nosh. Along with a magnificent volume of protein, pumpkin seeds also contain antioxidants like vitamin E and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation in the body. (www. nutrition).

Oilseed protein makes a significant influence to the human alimental protein ingestion. Furthermore, oilseeds are mostly richer in Sulphur AA than legumes, but minor in lysine except for rapeseed. The nourishing value of oilseed meals depends mainly on the oil extraction process. International dietary guidelines commend the intake for their contribution of proteins, and especially of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids as lessens the risk of chronic diseases. Back, [35] reported that Gproteins present in the oilseeds, plays a significant role in the synthesis of Omega-3 fatty acids which supports to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). There are a long list of oilseed and protein present (**Table 1**), these proteins are very beneficial to human and animal health.

#### **2.4 Summary points**

effective health benefits to protects diseases. Maize is a good source of B-complex vitamins along with antioxidants such as different types of polyphenols [30].

Oilseeds are rich source of protein and due to that these are high in demand in animal and human feed. In many of countries, the attention is on brassica crops, which comprises canola, rape and mustard. Oilseeds and their ingredients developed as resolute foods or as sources of nutraceuticals deliver benefits for consumers and diet processors. Sarwar et al. [31] reported a review article entitled "The role of oilseeds nutrition in human health: A critical review" in which the nutritional value of variable oilseeds was discussed and enlightens the nutraceutical potential of oilseeds. That article was focused on the key sorts of oilseeds, their role in human health and ailments, and high lightened the new progresses that may offer even more benefits in the future. Oilseed foods from soybean, peanut, rapeseed and flaxseed are rich in protein; when assorted with other components (cereal grains), and they deliver nutritionally balanced feedstuffs [32]. Mustard seeds and its oil have customarily been used to release muscular pain, rheumatism and arthritic pain. The mustard oil also very helpful in stimulating hair growth when applied over scalp also its ground seeds perform the role as a laxative, stimulant to gastric mucosa and surge intestinal secretion [33]. The Cucurbitaceae seeds such as *Cucumeropsis mannii*, *Cucurbita maxima*, *C. moschata*, *Lagenaria siceraria* and *Cucumis sativus* and their defatted cakes are rich in proteins hence these seeds can

Oilseed rарe is а very valuable сrор аs the seed is naturally 42% oil and the meal роrt after eliminating the oil is аbоut 42% crude рrоtein. Proteins serve а variety of functions in the human body such as асting as enzymes, antibodies, and the structural соmроnents of tissues, hormones and blооd рrоtein. The main function of dietary рrоtein is tо suррly АА for the growth and maintenance of body tissue. Digestion disassembles proteins intо their bаsiс building blосks АА. Furthermоre, the оil is раrtiсulаrly оf high quаlity and high in monounsaturated, and should lоgiсаlly be а premium рrоduсt. Today's сertаin varieties of oilseed rарe have been bred to рrоvide oil that is suitable for use in сооking and fооd рrосessing. Known as vegetable oil, the оil is widely used by the fооd industry and is now being increas-

Pumpkin seeds deliver a massive amount of nutrients in a very small package. Adding these budget-friendly seeds to your diet is a smart and healthy way to increase our protein consumption. Just 28 g of pumpkin seeds contains 7 g of

thus be measured as cores of proteins and oils (**Figure 4**) [34].

ingly рrосessed for use аs biо-diesel [33].

**Figure 4.** *Oilseeds.*

**24**

**2.3 Vegetable and oilseeds**

*Grain and Seed Proteins Functionality*



#### **Table 1.**

*Oil-producing crops and the major storage proteins suitable for human consumption.*

• Cereal proteins are less digestible by children and adults than egg and milk protein, except for wheat endosperm.
