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Nutritional Biochemistry and Genomics (NUTR30005)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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The subject will focus on nutritional biochemistry and genomics and will examine how our genes and their corresponding proteins and enzymes connect with nutrition. Emphasis will be placed on the connection to human health.

Students will explore the biochemical mechanisms behind the individual response to nutrients and dietary patterns and their implication to a personalised approach to nutrition. More specifically this subject will explore I) the relationships between genetics and diet, II) the impact on human health of enzymes disrupted function resulting from gene variants and mutations, III) the role of diet in affecting chemical modifications of DNA and histones that constitute the epigenome and, VI) the challenges of translating the fast-accumulating evidence in nutrition.

Intended learning outcomes

On the successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Explain the fundamental concepts of genetics and its interaction with biochemical pathways related to human nutrition
  • Describe how genomics technologies can be applied to nutrition science
  • Explain the biochemical role of nutrients and other food components
  • Evaluate nutritional genomics knowledge in context such as personalised nutrition
  • Evaluate and interpret scientific literature and research findings to explain the effect of nutrition on medically important diseases
  • Demonstrate that they can work effectively in group work activities to generate, analyse and communicate scientific findings

Generic skills

  • Interpret scientific literature and data from electronic databases
  • Integrate knowledge across disciplines
  • Comprehend a question, evaluate the relevant information and communicate an answer
  • Think independently and analytically, and direct their own learning
  • Manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular classes, tests and the examination

Last updated: 31 January 2024