FTEC 578 - Phytochemicals and Probiotics for Health

A survey of phytochemistry and probiotic organisms, including their synthesis in plants, prevalence and sources in the diet, their use for health improvement, and molecular mechanisms by which they modulate intracellular signal transduction and protein expression in chronic disease states such as cancer and obesity. The course provides a current review of how gut microbes affect human metabolism and health, and how plant biology and metabolism effects phytochemical content of foods. Specific topics include the role of bioactive peptides, phenolics, terpenes, alkaloids, and organosulfurs in human health, and discuss issues of food waste and role of plant breeding and biotechnology. Course activities include lecture, discussion, analysis of case studies, and exercises to develop new dietary products based on phytochemicals and gut microorganisms.

Course Learning Objectives
1. Define specific content knowledge and vocabulary in the major areas encompassed by phytochemistry and probiotics and health.
2. Explain the mechanisms through which plants synthesize and regulate dietary phytochemicals.
3. Analyze and interpret the mechanisms through which certain phytochemicals modulate receptor activation, intracellular signal transduction, and gene and protein expression.
4. Explain the interactions between dietary phytochemicals and gut microbes in relation to gut and systemic inflammation.
5. Interpret and summarize the influence of phytochemicals and gut microbes on disease states such as cancer.
6. Evaluate case studies involving phytochemicals and probiotics for their effects on human health.
7. Design new products involving phytochemicals and probiotics for their effects on human health.
8. Develop critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills in phytochemicals, probiotics, and human health.