Class Molecular Nutrition

The Molecular Nutrition course unit aims to explore how nutrients influence molecular and cellular processes, as well as the interplay between diet, gene expression, and health. Key concepts from nutrigenetics, nutrigenomics, and epigenetics will be addressed, alongside their application to understanding various diseases. The course also introduces the role of bioactive compounds, and the relationships among nutrients, gut microbiota, and gene expression throughout the life cycle. The theoretical practical component is designed to complement the theoretical content through laboratory work and molecular data analysis, developing both technical and critical skills. It includes laboratory sessions, basic bioinformatics, and independent research assignments.

Not applicable

Theoretical Component Introduction to Molecular Nutrition Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics Gene Expression and Regulation by Nutrients Cellular Signaling and Nutrients Nutritional Epigenetics Bioactive Compounds and Cellular Modulation Molecular Nutrition and Disease Gene/Nutrient/Microbiota Interactions Nutrigenetics in Fetal Development and Childhood Case Study: USF - Prof. Sofia Ferreira: Practical application of molecular concepts in a clinical context Guest Session (Dr. Dragan Milenkovic, NC State University - to be confirmed): Topic to be defined   Theoretical-Practical Component TP1: Introductory Session TP2: Genotyping of the MTHFR C677T SNP TP3: Western Blot (Protein Analysis) TP4: Basic Bioinformatics and Gene Expression   Group Project Fake Science vs. Real Evidence: Debunking Myths with a Molecular Basis Planning, research, discussion, and presentation of a topic based on scientific evidence

The Molecular Nutrition curricular unit adopts innovative, student-centered methodologies, promoting active, critical, and applied learning. Using problem-based learning, students tackle real-world cases such as Fake Science vs. Real Evidence, developing critical thinking and scientific argumentation. Laboratory activities, such as SNP genotyping and Western blot, reinforce theoretical knowledge and build essential technical skills. The use of digital and bioinformatics tools provides access to genomic databases and analysis software, enhancing digital literacy. Continuous assessment with regular feedback fosters self-regulated learning. Group collaboration and oral scientific communication are emphasized as key transversal skills, and guest speakers (e.g., researchers) help bridge theory and professional practice. These methodologies support a dynamic, integrated approach to teaching, aligned with the current demands of nutritional sciences.

Kriaa, A., & Trabelsi, H. (2024). Progress in nutrigenomics. In V. Singh (Ed.), Advances in genomics (pp. 213–225). Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-3169-5_11 Vaschetto, L. M. (Ed.). (2024). Molecular mechanisms in nutritional epigenetics (Vol. 12). Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-54215-2 Lagoumintzis, G., & Patrinos, G. P. (2023). Triangulating nutrigenomics, metabolomics and microbiomics toward personalized nutrition. Human Genomics, 17, 109. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40246-023-00561-w Pointner, A., & Haslberger, A. G. (2022). Personalized nutrition for healthy aging. In A. G. Haslberger (Ed.), Advances in precision nutrition (pp. 97–143). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-10153-3_5 Principles of nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics. (2020). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/C2015-0-01839-1