Present day knowledge about casein micelles structure

This is a review of publications related with structure of casein micelles of milk. Different structure models of the micelles are briefly characterized. Physical-chemical characteristics of the αs1-, αs2-, β- and κ-caseins important for understanding mechanism of self-association of casein micelles are given. Principle issues of the polycon- densation model of casein micelles structure are discussed. Mechanism of self- assembling, growth termination and support of the structure entireness of casein micelles have been considered.

casein micelle, casein micelle structure, casein micelle model, nano-clusters, colloidal calcium phosphate, hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic interactions, αs1-, αs2-, β- and κ-casein self-association