Computational screening for novel α-glucosidase inhibitory peptides from Chlamys nobilis adductor muscle as a potential antidiabetic agent

EHCA exhibited significant <i>α</i>-glucosidase inhibitory activity and radical scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). <i>in vivo</i>, EHCA significantly improved the glucose tolerance of mice, reduced malondialdehyde and increased the superoxide dismutase activity in liver. Five novel peptides were identified, with Lys-Leu-Asn-Ser-Thr-Thr-Glu-Lys-Leu-Glu-Glu and Thr-Asp-Ala-Asp-His-Lys-Phe showing strong inhibitory effects on <i>α</i>-glucosidase (IC₅₀ value of 144.89 μM and 136.96 μM, respectively). The interactions between peptides and <i>α</i>-glucosidase were driven by hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic interactions. These findings suggest that EHCA and its derived peptides could serve as potential adjuvant agents for blood glucose regulation and antioxidant activity. The identified peptides may pave the way for the development of alternative <i>α</i>-glucosidase inhibitors.