Biologically active peptides that are derived from or are similar to
sequences identical with the N-terminus of the .alpha.S1 fraction of milk
casein. These peptides are capable of stimulating and enhancing immune
response, protecting against viral infection, normalizing serum
cholesterol levels, and stimulating hematopoiesis. The casein-derived
peptides are non-toxic and can be used to treat and prevent immune
pathologies, hypercholesterolemia, hematological disorders and
viral-related diseases, alone or in combination with other peptides or
blood cell stimulating factors.