News

Our research not only influences the scientific community, but the general public as well. We strive to share our discoveries with everyone. Read some of our latest articles on what is happening at the Nutrition Research Institute.

Sweet Potato Slaw

June 21, 2016 • Sweet Potato Slaw by Chef Aubrey Mast of the NC State Plants for Human Health Institute.

NRI presents inaugural short course for nutrition specialists

May 23, 2016 • The UNC Nutrition Research Institute (NRI) holds its first short course in Nutrigenetics, Nutrigenomics and Precision Nutrition, May 23 – 26. This workshop-style educational course features 16 expert-led presentations on an array of topics including “Nutrition and Epigenetics” and “MicroRNA and Metabolic Profiling.” State-of-the-art practice is an important component of the short course. In hands-on sessions participants will learn to analyze and interpret genetic data using PLINK, Harvard’s open-source, whole-genome association analysis software toolset.

Spinach and Flaxseed Pesto

April 27, 2016 • Spinach and Flaxseed Pesto recipe designed by Chef James O’Hara, Senior Instructor at Johnson & Wales University.

NRI Postdoctoral Research Associate receives Trainee Merit Award from the ASA

April 26, 2016 • Summer Goodson earned her Ph.D. in Cell and Development Biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2011. Now, only five years later, she has been recognized for a significant contribution in the field of andrology. In April, at the 41st Annual American Society of Andrology (ASA) Conference in New Orleans, LA, she was evaluated by anonymous judges and became one of four out of 148 trainees to receive the Trainee Merit Award.

Study of Space Travelers Helps Explain Disease in the Earthbound

Study of Space Travelers Helps Explain Disease in the Earthbound

April 26, 2016 • Some inherited genetic mutations have obvious harmful effects, such as those associated with cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia. Now, scientists are learning more about stress-induced effects of gene mutations. We have known for some time that certain astronauts who had spent time at the International Space Station developed vision problems.

Cashew Chipolte Crema

April 12, 2016 • Cashew Chipolte Crema recipe designed by Chef Megan Lambert, Senior Instructor at Johnson & Wales University.

Study Finds Weight Loss Amount is More Important than Diet Type in Reversing Obesity-Cancer Link

Study Finds Weight Loss Amount is More Important than Diet Type in Reversing Obesity-Cancer Link

March 28, 2016 • Researchers striving to break the link between obesity and cancer have found in a new preclinical study that significant weight loss through calorie restriction, but not moderate weight loss through a low-fat diet, was linked to reduced breast cancer growth. The preliminary findings (abstract #4321) will be presented from 1-5 p.m. April 19 at the 2016 American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting in New Orleans.

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By donating to the Nutrition Research Institute, your money targets the root of most American disease. Our scientists focus on how our genes respond to food so that soon medical practitioners will be able to guide people in their health from childhood through old age. Our critical research depends on the generosity of people like you.