Anti-genotoxic potential of casein phosphopeptides (CPPs): a class of fermented milk peptides against low background radiation and prevention of cancer in radiation workers

Background: Radiation workers are constantly exposed to low background radiation which is their occupational hazard. This continuous and prolonged exposure produces genotoxicity and cancerous condition in many workers. The authors have tested casein phosphopeptides (CPP) as a radioprotectant against low background radiation using animal models. Methods: Fermented milk was produced by addition of a bacterial culture, Lactobacillus acidophilus to a commercially available milk brand. After the fermentation process is completed in the milk, CPP is isolated from fermented milk by enzymatic hydrolysis-based method. The radioprotective role of CPP was proved using albino mice and Catla catla fish. Results: The micronucleus assay showed higher level of cell deformation and micronucleus formation in the control animal cells than the test animal cells. CPP has found to be having radioprotective activity potential. Conclusions: This radioprotective potential of CPP can be harnessed to produce formulations which can be used by radiation workers and personnel exposed to low ionization background as an occupational hazard, thus reducing the risk and preventing any type of cancer.