99712 - Preclinical Research of Nutraceuticals

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student has an adequate knowledge on in vitro and in vivo experimental methods for the evaluation of functional and health effects of ingredients for food supplements and nutraceuticals.

Course contents

Module 1 - (2 CFU, 12 hours of lectures)

Main stages of preclinical development of nutraceuticals. In vitro and in vivo models used in preclinical testing. Identification and determination of the mechanism of action of nutraceuticals. Chemical and biological standardization of nutraceuticals. Evaluation of nutraceutical absorption and bioavailability. Assessment of the dose of an effective nutraceutical in vitro and in vivo, including extrapolation of doses for human applications. Good laboratory practices for conducting preclinical studies. Intellectual property considerations in the nutraceutical sector.


Module 2 – (2 CFU, 20 hours of laboratory work)

This module includes two different research activities in the nutraceutical sector. The first activity focuses on the in vitro evaluation of antioxidant activity and the total polyphenol content in plant-based raw materials intended for the nutraceutical market. The second activity utilizes bioinformatics tools to define a potential nutraceutical effect profile linked to a specific plant extract or a set of phytocomponents.

Readings/Bibliography

Slides of the lessons and handbook for the laboratory activities

 

Teaching methods

Lectures and laboratory activities

Assessment methods

Oral examination

Teaching tools

PC

Slides

Overhead projector

Office hours

See the website of Andrea Tarozzi