Abstract
Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is one of the few plant species where both
leaves and grains can be consumed. Among the main species used as producers of
edible grains are Amaranthus hypochondriacus, A. cruentus, A. caudatus, and A.
mantegazzianus. The grains of these species are characterized by their protein content
(13-18%), which has high nutritional value. Additionally, the different protein fractions
of the amaranth grain have been shown to contain sequences of biologically active
peptides (BAPs) with multiple beneficial bio-functionalities for health. Among these,
we can highlight antihypertensive, antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, antithrombotic,
anticholesterolemic and immunomodulatory activities. The aim of this chapter is to
describe the different biological functionalities of BAPs obtained from the proteins of
the amaranth grain, which can be considered a promising natural source of therapeutic
agents with potential use in the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases.