Genes and Nutrition
Each of us is metabolically unique. Gene variations known as SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) often are a factor in an individual’s ability to metabolize or use nutrients efficiently. Each of our specific nutrient needs is affected by which specific combination of SNPs we have, but with thousands known to impact nutrition metabolism, how do we know what those needs are?
NRI researchers are working to create a “catalog” of SNPs that alter our nutritional needs by understanding how genetic and other complex biological information can be used to better estimate individual nutrition requirements and intolerances. Our scientists use bioinformatics to extract such information from population and intervention studies, develop rules for predicting individual needs, and bring precision nutrition to health care providers and consumers with digital tools.
Publications
Genes and Nutrition Publications
2020
Genetic variants affecting bone mineral density and bone mineral content at multiple skeletal sites in Hispanic children. Voruganti VS
Precision (Personalized) Nutrition: Understanding Metabolic Heterogeneity. Zeisel S
2019
DNA methylation in mice is influenced by genetics as well as sex and life experience. French J
Cytosolic 10-formyltetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase regulates glycine metabolism in mouse liver. Krupenko S
Deleterious mutations in ALDH1L2 suggest a novel cause for neuro-ichthyotic syndrome. Krupenko S
Fine mapping and identification of serum urate loci in American Indians: The Strong Heart Family Study. Voruganti VS
Heterogeneity in Metabolic Responses to Dietary Fructose. Voruganti VS
Genetic analysis of hsCRP in American Indians: The Strong Heart Family Study. Voruganti VS
A trans-ancestral meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies reveals loci associated with childhood obesity. Voruganti VS
Healthy dietary patterns and risk and survival of breast cancer: a meta-analysis of cohort studies. Voruganti VS
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Genome-Wide Interaction Analyses Reveal DPP10-Pulmonary Function Association. Voruganti VS
2018
C16-ceramide is a natural regulatory ligand of p53 in cellular stress response. Krupenko N
Nutritional Genomics of Cardiovascular Disease. Voruganti VS
Genetic determinants of BMI from early childhood to adolescence: the Santiago Longitudinal Study. Voruganti VS
Serum Lipid Concentrations and FADS Genetic Variants in Young Mexican College Students: The UP-AMIGOS Cohort Study. Voruganti VS
Arsenic-gene interactions and beta-cell function in the Strong Heart Family Study. Voruganti VS
Dietary Modulation of the Epigenome. Zeisel S
2017
Exome sequencing reveals novel genetic loci influencing obesity-related traits in Hispanic children. Voruganti VS
Genetic variation underlying renal uric acid excretion in Hispanic children: the Viva La Familia Study. Voruganti VS
Reduced brain volume and impaired memory in betaine homocysteine S-methyltransferase knockout mice. Zeisel S
Choline, Other Methyl-Donors and Epigenetics. Zeisel S
2016
CerS6 Is a Novel Transcriptional Target of p53 Protein Activated by Non-genotoxic Stress. Krupenko N
Genotype, B-vitamin status, and androgens affect spaceflight-induced ophthalmic changes. Zeisel S
Related News
Doctoral Students in Nutrition sought for NRI
Several faculty members in the Department of Nutrition are looking to accept and mentor new doctoral students. Joining the NRI team is an an exceptional opportunity for students to work at the cutting edge of science in an amazing new facility.
Appetite for Life SoundBites Summer 2013
In this issue:
First comprehensive nutrigenetics book published
2013 Appetite for Life highlights
Art contest and N.C. Science Festival
Faculty News and Meet the People Behind the Science: Jody Albright, Research Asst.
Additions to Our Team
Student-led IMPACT Program
Catawba College Transfers Scientific Instruments to NRI
When Catawba College transferred state-of-the-art instrumentation to the NRI, it opened the door to expanding research capabilities for NRI scientists and real-life lab experience for Catawba students. The NRI will use the equipment to further its research into how metabolism and nutrition requirements are individualized.
Helping the world get healthier, one person at the time
May 31, 2013 – Researchers at the NRI are studying nutrition in a new way, discovering how diet and exercise affect health and help prevent chronic disease. Strengthened associations between individualized nutrition and enhanced health will have a global impact.
Dr. Philip May awarded $5.3M grant to study FASD
The National Institute of Health’s National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism awarded NRI Research Scientist Philip May, Ph.D. a $5.3 million grant to study Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in South Africa .
Dr. Martin Kohlmeier honored with Weinsier Award
Martin Kohlmeier, M.D., Ph.D., faculty member at the NRI, received the 2013 Roland L. Weinsier Award for Excellence in Medical/Dental Nutrition Education from the American Society for Nutrition (ASN).