Each person's risk for disease depends on their unique genetic makeup (genome). The genome cannot be changed, but the biological readout of genes can be manipulated by dietary intervention ("personalized nutrition"). NGN is using a multidisciplinary approach to identify disease risk in individuals and population subgroups, and to develop nutrition intervention programs for optimal human health.

We are using molecular biology and bioinformatics approaches to identify genes that are regulated by bioactive food compounds, and we are developing dietary interventions that modify gene expression and optimize human health. NGN recognizes that cultural, economic, educational, environmental, life stage, and geographical factors also play crucial roles in human health.

NGN Objectives

  • identify gene polymorphisms that predispose individuals and population subgroups to disease;
  • identify bioactive food compounds and develop dietary interventions to optimize health;
  • breed animals and plants for human biomedical traits (livestock and crop improvement);
  • create a database with original research results that is openly accessible to stakeholders;
  • develop and foster a set of core skills and offer services to NGN faculty, non-NGN faculty, and stakeholders;
  • educate students and develop the workforce in nutritional genomics; and
  • establish community outreach programs to educate the public and ethnic risk groups about nutrition and genetics, and dietary interventions for optimal health.

4th Annual NGN 2012 Spring Retreat - May 14, 2012

"Fostering Ties with the Food & Nutrition Industry"

Retreat Information | Agenda | Registration Form and Poster Submission


Participating Units - University of Nebraska Lincoln

  • Agronomy and Horticulture
  • Animal Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Biological Systems Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Entomology
  • Food Science and Technology
  • Nutrition and Health Sciences (lead department)
  • School of Biological Sciences
  • Statistics

Affiliated Departments - University of Nebraska Medical Center

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology