Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The requested replacement of the unrepairable mass spectrometry detector of the ultra-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) system, is an essential analytical instrument for advancing our understanding of the molecular basis of how dietary flavonoids contribute to the prevention of chronic human disorders such as certain cancers. The UPLC-MS/MS system allows the accurate measurement of very low amounts of postbiotic molecules produced by beneficial probiotic bacteria when they ferment indigestible food constituents especially polymerized flavonoids in our diet. The UPLC-MS/MS system is essential equipment for the training of highly qualified personnel (HQP), who routinely use this instrument for investigating biologically active phytonutrients from extracts and novel food ingredients generated from a wide range of natural resources including cool climate fruits and their processing byproducts and fresh produce waste. The replacement of the obsolete, 18 years old mass detector is vital for our ongoing investigations of genoprotective mechanisms of dietary polymerized flavonoids and their probiotic metabolites (NSERC Discovery Grant), development of encapsulated food ingredients from fermented wild blueberry (NSERC Alliance) and development of cosmeceutical functional ingredients from fresh produce waste (NSERC Mission). In addition, the UPLC-MS/MS system will support the NSERC-fundamental research-inspired applied research projects as well as other researchers in my rural agricultural campus in Truro, Nova Scotia to discover biostimulants of soil bacteria, carotenoids of microalgae, and isoprenoids of biopolymers. In Canada, significant challenges are being faced by oxidative stress and inflammation-linked chronic diseases, which are directly or indirectly linked to diet. Scientific evidence reveals that diets high in fruits and vegetables substantially reduce the risks of many disorders. Dietary flavonoids with antioxidant and other physiological properties are now known as the crucial components in our diet that provide specific health benefits beyond the basic nutritional functions, "Food as Medicine". This proposed equipment will significantly advance our understanding of the molecular basis of how dietary flavonoids and fermented food contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases. For example, we are demonstrating the role of postbiotics in the protection of healthy cells against DNA damage caused by exposure to carcinogenic factors. Thus, this fundamental knowledge will contribute to developing effective disease-preventive dietary strategies for Canadians. Our local industry partners and others are anticipated to develop and commercialize symbiotic functional foods and ingredients, cosmeceutical ingredients, and dietary supplements for humans and companion animals. The research will also provide benefits for a sustainable environment through better use of fruit processing waste and fresh produce waste.