Anyone for an aperitif? Yes, but only a Braulio DOC with its certified proteome

The trace proteome of a Braulio aperitif (a 21% alcohol beverage, named after a mountain in the Val di Stelvio, Italy) has been investigated via capture with combinatorial peptide ligand libraries (CPLL, ProteoMiner). This aperitif is made with an infusion of 13 mountain herbs and berries, among which four are officially indicated in the label: Achillea moschata, juniper (Juniperus communis subsp. alpina) berries, absinthe (Artemisia absinthium) and gentian (Gentiana alpina) roots. Via capture with CPLLs at pH 7.0 and 2.2 we were able to identify 29 unique gene products, among which the PR5 (parasite resistance) allergen Jun r 3.2, a 25 kDa species from Juniperus rigida. Due to the paucity of data on these alpine herbs, it was difficult to attribute these proteins to the specific plant extracts presumably present in this beverage; however most of the species identified indeed belong to alpine herbs and plants, living in a habitat between 1000 and 2000 m of elevation. Most of them are enzymes, spanning a Mr range from 10 to 65 kDa. It is hoped that such a proteomic signature should help tracking counterfeited products sold on the market.

A century ago the absinth, much beloved by French impressionists, was banned as a poison. Fear not! The Braulio aperitif will titillate your soft palate with its aroma-enhancing proteome.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (102 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A whiff of alpine herbs trapped in a bottle of “amaro”.
► Rub it like Aladdin's lamp and 29 proteins will be at your command to protect you against evil spirits.
► The best survival kit for soft drink lovers and Coca Cola addicts.
► A platoon of aroma-enhancing proteins will titillate your soft palate.
► Braulio and α-ghrelin: an amour possible!