BIOCHEMICAL CONTRIBUTION OF WHEY PROTEIN POWDERS TO ENERGY METABOLISM IN MUSCLE TISSUE
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Keywords: whey protein, BCAA, mTOR, muscle metabolism, ATP synthesis, protein synthesis, antioxidant, transamination.Abstract
Abstract. This article provides an extensive overview of the biochemical composition of whey proteins, their digestive pathways, the role of amino acids in muscle metabolism, and the molecular mechanisms underlying energy production in skeletal muscle. Special attention is given to the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including their transamination, mitochondrial oxidation, and contribution to ATP synthesis. In addition, the ability of leucine to activate the mTORC1 signaling pathway and thereby enhance muscle anabolism is thoroughly discussed. The anti-catabolic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and mitochondria-generating effects of whey proteins are analyzed from a biochemical perspective. Practical applications of whey proteins in sports medicine, clinical nutrition, geriatrics, and rehabilitation are comprehensively evaluated.
