Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The long term objective of my program is characterization of micronutrients and phytochemicals in whole grains and grain products and their molecular structure function relationships as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds so that we can understand their fundamental chemistry and biological action and therefore, advocate for (a) increased intake of whole grain foods which can modulate metabolic pathways, and (b) the development of cereal-based functional foods containing bioaccessible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components. The following specific objectives will be pursued in the next 5 years: 1. Characterization, functional properties, and bioaccessibility of polyamines in raw and processed whole grains after in vitro digestion We will evaluate polyamines content in whole grains and grain products, their bioaccessibility, and biological properties in grain digesta.  Polyamines and metabolites generated during in vitro digestion will be characterized by HPLC/MS. 2. To examine the impact of different grain types and processing on ferulic acid, carotenoids, and other phytochemicals released in the digesta We will explore factors including bran layer thickness and food processing using milling, cooking, extrusion, and digestive enzymes. Phenolic compounds and carotenoids in whole grains and whole grains products before and after digestion will then be characterized using techniques that include HPLC, LCMS/MS, and NMR. 3. To investigate the role of digesta ferulic acids and carotenoids on intestinal barrier function We will use intestinal epithelial cells and measure parameters such as transepithelial electrical resistance, paracellular permeability, and tight junction (TJ) protein expression. The TJ expression at the mRNA level will be determined and quantified using real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Their expression at the protein level will be determined through western blotting. 4. To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the protective effect of the digesta ferulic acids and carotenoids against oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut barrier disruption For this purpose, in vitro cell culture experiments will be extended to determine the different pathways involved in the occurrence of oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut barrier dysfunction. The impact of the work pursued over this 5-year term includes provision of strong evidence of molecular structure-function relationships of phytochemicals released during digestion leading to beneficial health effects. The latter are important in mitigation of chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and intestinal barrier issues. The research is expected to make significant contributions to scientific knowledge related to regular whole grain consumption.