D0841 - NUTRIGENETICA E NUTRIGENOMICA

Learning outcomes

The course "Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics" aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the molecular interactions between nutrients and the human genome, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms through which nutrients modulate gene expression and influence human health. The course also seeks to explain the impact of individual genetic variability on the metabolism of nutrients and bioactive compounds introduced through the diet.

Upon completion of the course, students will have acquired comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental principles underlying the relationship between diet and the genome, enabling them to apply this knowledge to the promotion and maintenance of health through personalized nutritional strategies tailored to an individual's genetic profile. In addition, students will be able to critically evaluate the scientific literature in the field, interpret the effects of nutrients on gene expression, and understand the major molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between nutrition and human health.

Course contents

1. Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics: A Journey Between Genetics and Nutrition

• The relationship between nutrition and the human genome.
• Definition and research approaches in nutrigenomics.
• Definition and research approaches in nutrigenetics.

2. Molecular Basis of Nutrigenomics

• Molecular mechanisms underlying nutrigenomics and epigenetics.
• Activation and regulation of protein activity in cells following nutrient intake.
• Different levels of gene expression regulation by macro- and micronutrients.
• Nutrition and epigenetics: the effects of nutrients on gene transcription.
• Epigenetic clocks.

3. Genetic Variability and Individual Responses to Nutrients

• Origin and types of individual genetic variability.
• Gene variants influencing taste perception, lactose tolerance, and nutrient metabolism.
• Interactions between genes, nutrients, and dietary bioactive compounds.

4. Nutrigenomics Across the Life Course

• Nutrition during the prenatal and neonatal periods.
• Physical activity and maternal well-being.
• Impact of exposure to smoking and environmental pollutants on development.
• Nutrigenomics in adulthood and healthy aging.

5. Nutrigenomics, Health, and Disease Prevention

• Nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics of the Mediterranean diet.
• Ultra-processed foods and their molecular responses.
• Effects of diet on genome stability.
• Role of nutritional deficiencies in DNA damage and cancer development.
• Effects of diet on the onset of major chronic diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

6. Laboratory and Genetic Testing

• Overview of the main laboratory and genetic tests used to identify genomic and genetic alterations influenced by diet or responsible for individual variability in dietary responses.

Readings/Bibliography

1st Edition

Nutrigenomics and NutraceuticalsEdited

By Raj K. Keservani ], Eknath D. Ahire  Shubham J. Khairnar , Sanjay J. Kshirsagar Rajesh K. Kesharwani

Teaching methods

Lectures supported by PowerPoint presentations.

Critical discussion of recent scientific articles.

Analysis of case studies on the interactions between diet, the genome, and human health.

Interpretation of data derived from genetic testing and nutrigenomics studies.

Assessment methods

Oral examination consisting of three questions:

• one question selected by the student from the course topics;
• two questions based on scientific articles discussed during the course, aimed at assessing the student's ability to critically analyze and interpret the scientific literature.

Teaching tools

The following materials will be made available to students through the virtual learning platform:

• Scientific articles.
• Lecture slides in PDF format.

Office hours

See the website of Valeria Righi