NDFS5410

Describe the structure of genes and explain the key steps of gene transcription and post-transcriptional regulation, including chromatin dynamics and mRNA processing.

Explain how major nutrient classes (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids) influence gene expression through transcription factors, signaling pathways, and metabolic regulators.

Evaluate the molecular mechanisms by which vitamins and minerals (such as vitamin A, selenium, iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin B6, and vitamin C) modulate gene expression and contribute to the etiology or prevention of chronic disease.

Analyze how nutrient–gene interactions contribute to metabolic disorders, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and appetite regulation.

Describe how nutrition influences epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and one-carbon metabolism, and explain their relevance to disease risk and development.

Explain how dietary compounds such as polyphenols and phytochemicals regulate gene expression and modulate inflammation, cancer risk, and cellular signaling pathways.

Interpret the role of the gut microbiome in nutrient–gene interactions, including effects of diet on microbial metabolism and host gene regulation.

Critically evaluate primary research on nutrient–gene interactions and synthesize information from peer-reviewed sources to write a scientific research paper.

Communicate scientific findings effectively through oral presentations that summarize complex molecular interactions clearly and accurately.

Apply molecular nutrition concepts to chronic disease etiology, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders, integrating mechanistic knowledge with current research literature.