Gluten Proteins: Beneficial Factors and Toxic Triggers in Human Health

The impact of gluten on human health has been the subject of intense study. Gluten proteins are implicated in a range of adverse health effects, such as allergy, celiac disease, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity in predisposed individuals. However, beyond their potential to trigger adverse reactions, gluten proteins also harbor sequences that, upon digestion or fermentation, can release bioactive peptides with health-promoting properties. These peptides have been reported to exhibit antioxidant, antihypertensive, and immunomodulatory activities, suggesting that gluten-derived products may contribute positively to human health. This review aims to explore the dual nature of gluten proteins, examining their role as both potential health hazards and sources of beneficial molecules. By dissecting the molecular mechanisms underlying gluten-related disorders and the functional properties of gluten-derived peptides, we seek to provide a balanced view of gluten’s complex role in nutrition and health.