Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Virtual Zoom Meeting (4:00 – 8:00 PM, EST)

4:00    Introductions

4:20    Lisa Hans and Mallory Koenings - USDA Updates  

5:00    Business Meeting

• Richard Bruno - Meeting Format Overview
• Current Secretary Jaume Amengual was promoted to Chair

Kacie Ho was elected as new Secretary.

5:45    Station Reports Session I

Ohio State University, Richard Bruno:  Advances in bioactive food component research

University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Jaume Amengual: Effects of beta-carotene on vitamin A production in atherosclerosis and obesity

University of Hawaii at Manoa, Kacie Ho: Phytochemical composition and bioaccessibility of Hawaii Commodities

University of Hawaii at Manoa, Jinzeng Yang: Effects of Bioactive Compounds on skeletal muscle growth and diabetes prevention

University of Maine, Dorothy Klimis‐Zacas: A novel role of wild blueberry bioactives on cell migration and angiogenesis related to wound healing and tissue regeneration

Purdue University, Lavanya Reddivari: Anti-colitic effects of Flavonoids: Role of gut bacteria

6:30    Open Q&A Panel Discussion

6:45    Station Reports Session II

University of Arizona, Frank Duca: Role of gut-brain axis in regulating food intake and glucose production

University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Janos Zempleni: Milk exosomes

Oregon State University, David Dallas: milk protein and peptide digestion and bioactivity

University of California-Davis, Peng Ji: Early-life iron nutrition and development

University of Florida, Juan E Andrade: Sensors for detection and proteins for delivery of micronutrients in foods for low-income settings

7:30    Open Q&A Panel Discussion

7:45    Meeting Summary & Adjournment

University of Florida, Gainesville (Juan Andrade). Background: Project 1. Characterization of sensors for iron determination to support food fortification programs in low-income countries. In low-income countries, tools to monitor fortification processes are lacking, which represent a significant hurdle to improve nutrient delivery to populations. Project 2. Evaluation of efficacy of bioactives against parasites. Diarrhea worldwide affects the growth and health of children under five. The zoonotic protozoan Cryptosporidium parvum is one of the top three leading causes of diarrhea worldwide. Activities: Project 1. We have characterized and validated a low-cost, smartphone assisted paper-based sensor for determination of iron in fortified flours. Project 2. We have shown that essential oils from hops byproducts and from aromatic plants such as thyme and oregano. Outcomes: Project 1. The paper-based sensor is capable of measuring different types of added iron into flours such a maize and wheat. We are continuing the validation of the sensor using maize samples from different countries and fortified with different iron types, including NaFeEDTA. Project 2. We are currently evaluating the role of these plant extracts on the inhibition of bacterial growth in vitro.

Montana State University, Bozeman (David Sands). Background: Crop plants are generally selected by plant breeders for the yield limiting traits including disease and insect resistance. The bioavailability of nutritional components of food crops are seldom considered. Activities: In the past year we have scaled up winter field production of our EM-1 line of high lysine spring wheat. We have distributed a “high amylose” cultivar of potatoes to 5 Tribal Reservations in two states. Selections with traits associated with high amylose can be assayed by observation of starch granule structure revealing high amylose: low amylopectin ratios. High protein oat selections were assayed using NIR spectroscopy, now in high demand as plant sourced proteins. Outcomes: Three manuscripts (Microgreens, The Preliminary Screen for Low Glycemic Potatoes, and Plasmid Curing in a Food Crop) are in preparation. Several commercial and non-profit interests have been established to scale up production of the high lysine wheats, the low glycemic field peas, and the high amylose potatoes, all selected for their dietary components associated with improved health.

University of Hawaii at Manoa (Kacie KHY Ho). Background: Many agricultural commodities are known to be rich sources of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive phytochemicals, all of which may provide beneficial health effects. The technical goals of this research are to identify and quantify the major nutrients and phytochemicals (and their potential interactions) in post-harvest commodities across different varieties and to elucidate the effect of food matrix on bioaccessibility. Activities: Papayas of different cultivars were collected from different locations to observe the effect of papaya type and growing conditions on phytochemical profile. Aside from identifying and quantifying the major carotenoid compounds, in-vitro bioaccessibility tests were conducted to observe differences in bioaccessibility. Outcomes: Our findings indicated that differences in carotenoid content existed across different cultivars, with all tested cultivars containing significant amounts of beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin. Two cultivars were red-fleshed and contained lycopene (~1089-1570 μg/100g). Overall, the findings suggest that significant differences in both carotenoid content and bioaccessibility can exist depending on the cultivar.

University of Hawaii at Manoa (Jinzeng Yang). Background: Diet, including specific nutrients and bioactive food components, play a vital role in improving health and reducing the risk for chronic diseases. Papaya fruit has high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, and carotenes, and is very popular in Hawaii. Besides fruits, papaya leaves have been used as therapeutic remedies to treat asthma, worming, dysentery, cancer, and infectious diseases. The leaf aqueous extract accelerates wound healing, whereas the leaf methanol extract has exhibited vasodilating and antioxidant effects. Recent reports demonstrated that papaya leave extract can significantly reduce blood glucose level in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Activities: My laboratory's previous research expertise in animal models and molecular biology were crucial. My laboratory maintains two colonies of myosatin prodomain transgenic mice, which have enhanced muscle growth due to functional depression of myostatin gene. A project is planned to use these mice and their wild-type control littermates to study the effects of papaya leaf and other tropical specialty crops on diabetes prevention. Outcomes: (1) Determine the bioavailability of nutrients and bioactive food components. (2) Determine the efficacy and mechanisms of action of nutrients to improve health.

University of Rhode Island, Kingston (Brietta Oaks). Background: Lead exposure is a major public health concern in Rhode Island. There is evidence that omega-3 fatty acid intake may reduce circulating lead concentrations, but research has been limited and has not been explored in pregnant women, whom are at a higher risk for adverse effects of lead exposure. In addition, omega-3 fatty acid intake may reduce circulating cortisol, a stress hormone which has negative effects during pregnancy if at chronically high concentrations. Activities: We updated our IRB approval to be in line with policies for research during COVID-19. We have also updated our data collection instruments so we are ready to begin data collection once COVID-19 restrictions on data collection allow us to conduct our research. In addition, we conducted a survey of prenatal vitamin use among pregnant women in Rhode Island to determine the impact of WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) enrollment on prenatal supplement use. Outcomes: We determined that women enrolled in WIC are equally using prenatal supplements as women not enrolled in WIC with more than 90% using prenatal supplements during pregnancy, although women enrolled in WIC are more likely to use prescription prenatal supplements.

University of Arizona, Tucson (Jennifer Teske). Background: The laboratory focuses on the impact of insufficient sleep on chronic disease and health outcomes, which includes the metabolism of nutrients. We investigate how sleep curtailment due to environmental noise exposure worsens metabolic health and how consumption of Westerns diets exacerbates disease risk during sleep disruption in rodent models. We are also interested in addressing sex differences since women are more sensitive to noise, have worse sleep and a higher prevalence of obesity compared to men. Activities: Conducted analyzes to determine the influence of sleep, diet and sex on micronutrient intake and the role of sex hormones on weight gain in male and females rats. Outcomes: We provided hands-on training and determined proficiency for students at all levels, provided training on anthropometrics, energy expenditure, energy intake and estrous cycle determination and scientific writing and presentation skills training for both oral and poster presentations for students at all levels.

University of California, Berkeley (Barry Shane). Background: Our laboratory is interested in biochemical nutrition, in particular, one carbon metabolism. We study how genetic variations influence the risk and susceptibility to birth defects. Activities: We have continued studies on the metabolic and nutritional effects of common polymorphisms in human folate-related genes that have been shown to influence disease risk. We continue to evaluate genetic risk factors for neural tube defects and to identify putative modifier genes which influence folate and vitamin B12 status, homocysteine levels, and methylation potential using a number of mouse strains and a cohort of students at Trinity College, Dublin. We screened the human genome for common genetic polymorphisms that influence folate-status biomarkers in healthy individuals. Candidate gene analyses and genome-wide association scans were conducted in 2232 young, healthy Irish subjects to evaluate which common genetic polymorphisms influence red cell folate, serum folate and plasma total homocysteine. Outcomes: The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C->T (rs1801133) variant was the major genetic modifier of all three folate related biomarkers in this Irish population and reached genome-wide significance for red cell folate, serum folate, and plasma total homocysteine levels. A second polymorphism in the MTHFR gene (rs3753584) was the only additional variant to exhibit any significant independent effect on red cell folate levels.

University of Maine, Orono (Dorothy Klimis-Zacas). Background: With the aging population and the increase in obesity and diabetes world-wide, health care professionals predict an increase in ulcers and chronic wounds. Unbalanced wound healing and tissue repair can lead to severe outcomes such as septicemia. Our results documented a differential response of wild blueberry extracts on endothelial cell migration and relevant proteins and their gene expression. Studies on angiogenesis also documented a concentration-depended effect, critical concentrations at which angiogenesis is modulated and differential response based on the different fractions (ACNs, anthocyanins or Phen, phenolic acids). ACNs seem to inhibit HUVEC migration and angiogenesis while PAs promote this process. Thus, the goal of the present project is to investigate ACNs and Phen fractions and their combination extracted from wild blueberry powder on wound healing and angiogenesis in an animal model. Activities: 1) validate our in vitro results with an in vivo model and 2) design a prototype (patch or spray) embedded with Phen of a specific concentration. Outcomes: During the first year of this project I formed a team to aid in the development of a biomedical prototype for wound healing and conduct customer discovery and market analysis. The pre-clinical study was completed and data showed that the phenolic acid extract at a specific concentration promoted wound closure by 20% over the control. We tested these prototypes in pre-clinical studies during September and October 2020 and we are presently analyzing the tissues for the above parameters.

University of California, Davis (Peng Ji). Background: Our research uses young pigs as a preclinical model to investigate health benefits and risks of dietary supplements. One of research themes aims to determine the metabolic response to and neurological effect of iron deficiency and overload in early life. Prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in young children under age 5 is above 40% in many resource-constrained settings, but drops below 10% in many developed countries. However, prophylactic iron in forms of oral supplements or fortified food (e.g. infant formula) was commonly given to infants in many developed countries without screening of iron status. In contrast to the urgent need of iron treatment, there is a rising concern over the risk of dietary iron overexposure in high-income countries. We hypothesize dietary iron overexposure in early life lead to tissue iron overload and deficiency which may adversely affect neuronal development and alter metabolic functions. Activities: We performed animal trial to assess the neurological and metabolic consequences of iron excess and deficiency. Iron status were determined through analysis of plasma iron, transferrin saturation and iron concentration in various tissues/organs. In order to evaluate neuronal development, we analyzed dendritic complexity of hippocampal neurons. Outcomes: Results from the study suggested that developing hippocampal iron status is susceptible to the changes of dietary iron in early life. Iron excess and deficiency altered the dendritic complexity differently in young pigs. Plasma metabolites was not affected at PD21, whereas 24 metabolites in plasma and Cerebrospinal fluid were altered by dietary iron.    

University of Arizona, Tucson (Frank Duca). Background: Project 1. Determine the bioavailability (absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination) of nutrients and bioactive food components. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced by bacterial fermentation in the GI tract. However, whether SCFAs are produced acutely in a postprandial manner is completely unknown. Along these same lines, it is unknown how different diets affect acute SCFA production. Project 2. Determine the efficacy and mechanisms of action of nutrients and dietary bioactive compounds towards improved health. Exogenous SCFA supplementation and increased endogenous SCFA production have been shown to improve glucose homeostasis, however the mechanisms remain unknown. Activities: Project 1. We performed an extensive time course study to determine levels of SCFAs in the small intestine, large intestine, colon, portal vein, and vena cava at 0,2,4,6,8hr following an iso-caloric meal in chow-fed, high-fat diet-fed, and high-fat diet supplemented with 10% oligofructose, a prebiotic, rats. Project 2. We performed in-vivo basal insulin glucose clamps during SCFA colonic infusion coupled with various vagotomies and co-administration of GLP-1 receptor antagonist to determine if SCFAs activate a gut-brain-liver axis to lower hepatic glucose production.  Outcomes: Project 1. We found that while SCFA levels were comparable between chow, HFD, and HFD+OFS for all sites after fasting, re-feeding resulted in a substantial increase in postprandial SCFAs in the cecum and circulation in chow and HFD+OFS rats, but not in HFD rats. Interestingly, this data demonstrates that previous studies measuring fasting levels of SCFAs are not representative of actual SCFA production, and that obesity from HFD-feeding in rats is associated with a blunted postprandial SCFA postprandial response. Project 2. We found that SCFAs lower hepatic glucose production that is dependent upon GLP-1 receptor signaling and celiac branch vagal afferents and hepatic vagal efferents.

Kansas State University, Manhattan (Brian Lindshield). Background: Our laboratory designs and experiment on fortified food products to analyze their potential in the promotion of health and prevention of disease. Activities and Outcomes: We completed the analysis and write up of results from rat fortified blended foods and fortified rice studies. We have plans in place for a study to determine whether saliva can be used to assess iron bioavailability and status as a less invasive measure than blood.

Oregon State University, Corvallis (David Dallas). Background: Our lab examines the digestion of milk protein and release of bioactive peptides in infants and adults. Activities: This year, we examined the survival of milk and recombinant antibodies across the digestive tract of infants. We also assessed differences in survival of peptides in the stomach of preterm and term infants. We also examined the peptides released in various cheeses. We also examined the effects of various donor milk microbial reduction techniques on the survival of a key breast milk lipase that helps infants digest breast milk fat. We also worked to develop a novel technique to identify glycoproteins and glycopeptides in milk via mass spectrometry. Outcomes: We demonstrated that recombinant antibodies do not survive intact within the term and preterm infant digestive tract, but that to some extent, milk antibodies do. This demonstrates that the structure of milk antibodies makes them uniquely resistant to digestion, which allows them to exert their protective functions within the gut. We found that the peptide profile in the preterm infant gut differs from that of that term infant gut and that many of these differences are key bioactive peptides. We also demonstrated that thousands of different peptides are present in cheeses, that this varies by cheese variety and rind vs. interior, and that many of these peptides are bioactive, with antimicrobial, ACE-inhibitory and immunomodulatory actions. We demonstrated that high-pressure processing and UV-C processing better preserved breast milk lipase compared with holder pasteurization. We developed a high-throughput method for identification of hundreds of unique glycopeptides in human milk.

University of Connecticut, Storrs (Ji-Young Lee). Background: Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is the progressive form of alcoholic liver disease. Activities: As macrophages play a crucial role in the development of AH, we determine the effect of astaxanthin, a xanthophyll carotenoid, on alcohol-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in macrophages. Outcomes: We found that astaxanthin exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in macrophages exposed to alcohol via the modulation of sirtuin 1. 

Oregon State University, Corvallis (Emily Ho). Background: Diet plays an important role in mitigating the development and progression of several cancers, including prostate and breast. This research demonstrates that nutritional strategies that decrease oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage and/or target aberrant epigenetic alterations, such as acetylation and methylation, have the potential to dramatically reduce the incidence of cancer. Secondly, declining nutritional status may be a critical determinant of healthy aging and susceptibility to environmental insults. The research program has focused on bioactives derived from cruciferous vegetables and zinc nutrition. Activities: We have complete clinical trials investigating the impact of broccoli sprout supplementation in prostate cancer. We have found that supplement are bioavailable and altered expression of AMCR and novel lncRNA. Unlike breast cancer patients, supplementation did not change proliferations markers in prostate. We have also identified additional epigenetic mechanisms involving the acetylation of CCAR2 in chemoprevention of sulforaphane. We have also employed cell culture models and rodent models to understand the impact of zinc status on exposure to arsenic. We have discovered that zinc deficiency sensitizes the pancreatic islet cells to oxidative stress and altered function. Outcomes: We have identified new risk factors in prostate and breast cancer and offer novel dietary modifications to reduce the incidence of cancer. We gained knowledge of the mechanisms behind the health benefits of zinc and compounds derived from vegetables. We established low dietary zinc as risk factor for inflammatory processes, DNA damage and cancer risk and identify new biomarkers for human zinc deficiency.

University of Connecticut, Storrs (Christopher N Blesso). Background: Diets rich in saturated fat contribute to elevations in blood cholesterol and a detrimental shifting of gut bacterial populations, both of which are implicated in the development of chronic diseases. Milk fat is relatively enriched in saturated fat compared with other dietary fats, however, it is naturally encased in a polar lipid-containing milk fat globule membrane. My research laboratory has shown in animal studies that cow's milk polar lipids (MPLs) may impart health benefits through lowering blood cholesterol and altering gut bacteria. However, very little research has been conducted to investigate how dietary MPLs impact serum cholesterol and gut bacteria in humans. The major objective of this project is to examine whether the daily consumption of milk fat with and without additional MPLs influences blood cholesterol and gut microbiota in humans. The major objective of this project aligns with one of the primary objectives of the W4002 Multi-State project, that is to “Determine the efficacy and mechanisms of action of nutrients and dietary bioactive compounds towards improved health.” Activities: We have initiated a human nutrition intervention study. Healthy adults will be recruited to participate in a randomized single-blind, controlled, crossover study. Participants will consume 20 g of milk fat daily in the form of either a reconstituted MPL-rich dairy beverage  or a control dairy beverage. Outcomes: So far, 12 participants have completed our intervention study. One graduate student (Master's degree-level) was trained in the agricultural sciences (specifically, Nutritional Sciences) on techniques related to measuring lipoprotein metabolism and human gut microbiota composition.

University of Nebraska, Lincoln (Jiujiu Yu). Background: Dietary exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) have recently been identified in many vegetables and fruits. Emerging evidence indicates that these dietary ELNs are bioavailable and regulate gene expression in the consumers. Activities: Our group tried to extract ELNs from edible mushrooms and assess their anti-inflammatory functions. We found that ELNs are present in seven commonly consumed mushrooms we tested. These ELNs are membrane-bound nanoparticles composed of lipids, proteins, and RNAs. Outcomes: Remarkably, shiitake mushroom-derived ELNs (S-ELNs) demonstrate potent anti-inflammatory function in cell culture and chemical-induced acute liver injury.

University of Nebraska, Lincoln (Janos Zempleni). Background: Almost every cell produces and secretes exosomes (nanoparticles) loaded with cargos such as various species of RNAs, proteins and lipids. Exosomes play essential roles in cell-to-cell communication. Activities: We have made the paradigm-shifting discovery that exosomes and their cargos do not exclusively originate in endogenous synthesis but may also be obtained from dietary sources such as human and bovine milk. Outcomes: 1) We demonstrated that milk exosomes alter the gut microbiome. 2) We demonstrated that milk exosomes do not elicit an immune response if administered orally to mice or added to cultures of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. 3) We identified modifications in the milk exosome proteome that increase the delivery of RNA therapeutics to brain tumors. 4) We identified glycans on the surface of milk exosomes essential for exosome absorption by mucosal cells in the GI tract. 5) We demonstrated that milk exosomes carry microbial mRNAs, and that the mRNAs are bioavailable in humans and increase the survival of an influenza A. challenge in mice. 6) We discovered that dietary exosome depletion decreases litter size and postnatal growth and survival in mice. 7) We demonstrated that maternal knockout of exosome and microRNA biogenesis impairs growth and GI health in wild-type pups fostered to the dams. 8) We demonstrated that milk exosomes select genetic variations in bacteria from the murine gut. 9)  Depletion of milk exosomes in cultures of a gut pathogen, C. difficile, increases both proliferation rates and toxin production, leading to an increase in weight loss in mice challenged with the bacteria. 10) We demonstrated that milk exosomes and their microRNA cargos are bioavailable and accumulate primarily in the GI mucosa, liver and brain.

Oklahoma State University, Stillwater (Dingbo Lin). Background: Our laboratory in interested in the interplay between microbiome and carotenoids. Activities: We analyzed the absorption and accumulation of astaxanthin and zeaxanthin as bioactive carotenoids in a mouse feeding study and the beneficial effects in fecal metabolome. Outcomes: We observed a shift in gut microbiome homeostasis, tight junction, and hepatic oxidative stress parameters that align with the protective role of these carotenoids in health and inflammation.

University of Missouri, Columbia (Ingolf Gruen). Background: Chocolate is made from the fermented, dried, and roasted seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, an important agricultural food crop which contains bioactive flavonoid polyphenols with beneficial health effects such as antioxidant status, cardiovascular and endocrine system functions, and cancer prevention. However, products which have the highest levels of cacao flavonoids such as high-cacao-percentage dark chocolate are known to be quite bitter, a taste modality that is not readily appreciated. Activities: We aim to modify cacao roasting on consumer perceptions of bitterness. Chemical and sensory analysis of the roasted chocolate treatments were carried out. Cacao was fermented and dried at origin before being roasted at different temperatures and times. Bitter compounds were analyzed by HPLC and sensory evaluation. Outcomes: We observed significant decreases for certain bitter compounds as roasting progressed, whereas othes increased. Some of these effects could be attributed to moisture loss. Sensory evaluations findings showed that reduction of bitterness, sourness, and astringency are correlated with increased liking of our chocolates. We also noted that consumers appear to have a preference for increased cocoa intensity and roast times.

University of Arizona, Tucson (John Paul SanGiovanni). Background: Exosomes are extracellular vesicles whose contents mediate cellular communication programs involved in processes of extracellular matrix remodeling, innate immunomodulation, lipid transport and cell survival (apoptosis and stress response). All of these processes are implicated in the pathophysiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Activities: Our long-term goal is to develop prognostically and therapeutically valuable exosome-based interventions for AMD. Outcomes: Over the past year, we are coordinating and setting up the research team to carry out these experiments.

Purdue University, West Lafayette (Lavanya Reddivari). Background: Plant-based diets are associated with reduced incidence of many chronic diseases. Given the vast array of flavonoids and the complexity of plant food metabolome interactions, it is difficult to identify with certainty the specific class(es) of flavonoids in the food matrix that are anti-inflammatory. Activities: To address this, we have developed four maize near-isogenic lines (NILs); a line that lacked both anthocyanins and phlobaphenes, a second NIL containing phlobaphenes, a third line had anthocyanins, and a fourth line that contained both anthocyanins and phlobaphenes. We used preclinical models to understand the mechanisms of action of these bioactive compounds in reducing colitis. Outcomes: Our results suggest that phlobaphenes in the food matrix are effective in improving mucus thickness and barrier integrity and function. Anthocyanins and phlobaphenes both reduced inflammation and improved gut bacterial diversity and ameliorated DSS-induced colitis. This project provided a platform to exchange ideas and share research data with collaborating researchers.

University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign (Jaume Amengual). Background: β-carotene is the primary precursor of vitamin A in mammals, which is crucial for life. My laboratory focuses on understanding the role of β-carotene and vitamin A in lipid metabolism. More specifically, we are interested in the role of these nutrients in obesity, atherosclerosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Activities:  Using clinical and preclinical models, we observed that the conversion of β-carotene to vitamin A favors the reduction of “bad” cholesterol. We developed a specific mouse model that mimics the accumulation of β-carotene in atherosclerotic lesions. Outcomes: Over the past year, we unveiled the role of β-carotene and vitamin A on plasma cholesterol levels and its relationship to atherosclerosis development.

Ohio State University, Columbus (Richard Bruno). Background. Green tea is rich in catechins, which have anti-inflammatory benefits along the gut-liver axis that thwart obesity-associated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While the Ohio station has well-documented these effects in rodents, translational interventions are needed. Activities. We conducted a placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized controlled trial in obese persons to test the hypothesis that a green tea catechin-rich confection would attenuate metabolic endotoxemia in association with decreasing gastrointestinal permeability. This intervention remains underway, but two separate LC-MS techniques have been validated to assess the benefits of green tea to restore gut barrier functions. The first approach is a multi-sugar probe test to assess changes in gut permeability. The second approach consists of assessing a panel of 10 straight chain and branched chain SCFA. Outcomes. LC-MS studies were conducted to establish ionization conditions of the sugar probes, evaluate appropriate stable isotope internal standards to quantify these sugar probes, and to perform a pilot study in humans. Rigorous analytical procedures have been validated. In a pilot study, healthy persons followed a low-polyphenol diet with or without the daily consumption of green tea catechins. Findings indicated no changes in gastric permeability based on urinary sucrose elimination, a tendency for small intestinal permeability to decrease based on reduced urinary lactulose/mannitol, and a significant decrease in large intestinal permeability based on reduced urinary sucralose/erythritol. Separate LC-MS studies also validated the simultaneous assessment of fecal metabolites. These SCFA signatures are expected to correlate with specific populations of commensal and pathogenic gut bacteria to inform the efficacy of green tea catechins to improve gut barrier function.

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26. Perng V, Li C, Navazesh SE, Klocke CR, Pinneles DK, Lein PJ, Ji P. Iron deficiency and iron excess differently affect dendritic architecture of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus. Journal of Nutrition. 2020, DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxaa326
27. Duca FA, Lam TKT. Bye, bye, bile: how altered bile acid composition changes small intestinal lipid sensing. Gut. 2020, 69(9):1549-1550.
28. Ward EJ, Lindshield BL. Performance, behavior, and perceptions of an open educational resource derived interactive educational resource by online and campus university students. Res Learn Technol. 2020, 28:2386.
29. Ward EJ, Suleria HAR, Joseph M, Chambers IV E, Alavi S, Lindshield BL. Soy Protein is and Efficacious Alternative to Whey Protein in Sorghum-Soy Fortified Blended Food in Rats. Curr Dev Nutr. 2020, 4(8).
30. Robinson, R. C., Nielsen, S. D., Dallas, D. C., Barile, D. B. (2020) Can cheese mites, maggots and molds enhance bioactivity? Peptidomic investigation of functional peptides in four traditional cheeses. Food & Function.
31. Lueangsakulthai, J., Kim, B. J., Demers-Mathieu, V., Sah, B. N. P., Woo, Y., Olyaei, A., O’Connor, A. Scottoline, B. P., Dallas, D. C. (2020) Effect of digestion on stability of palivizumab IgG1 in the infant gastrointestinal tract. Accepted at Pediatric Research.
32. Koh, J., Victor, A., Yeo, G., Qu, Y., Dallas, D. C. (2020) Effect of alternative processing techniques for donor breast milk on bile salt-stimulated lipase. Frontiers in Nutrition.
33. Kim, B. J., Dallas, D. C. (2020) Systematic examination of protein extraction, proteolytic glycopeptide enrichment and MS/MS fragmentation techniques for site-specific profiling of human milk N-glycoproteins. Talanta: 121811.
34. Nielsen, S. D., Beverly, R. L., Underwood, M. A., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Differences and similarities in the peptide profile of preterm and term mother’s milk and preterm and term infant gastric samples. Nutrients. 12(9), 2825;
35. Rackerby, B., Kim, H. J., Dallas, D. C., Park, S. H. (2020). Understanding the Effects of Dietary Components on the Gut Microbiome and Human Health. Food Science and Biotechnology. Food Science and Biotechnology, 29(11), 1463-1474; DOI: 10.1007/s10068-020-00811-w
36. Beverly, R. L., Huston, R. K., Markell, A. M., McCulley, E. A., Martin, R. L., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Differences in human milk peptide release along the gastrointestinal tract between preterm and term infants. Clinical Nutrition.
37. Sah, B. N. P., Lueangsakulthai, J., Hauser, B. R., Demers-Mathieu, V., Scottoline, B. P., Pastey, M. K., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Purification of Antibodies from Human Milk and Infant Digestates for Viral Inhibition Assays. Frontiers in Nutrition, section Nutritional Immunology.
38. Lueangsakulthai, J., Sah, B. N. P., Scottoline, B. P., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Survival of recombinant monoclonal and naturally-occurring human milk immunoglobulins A and G specific to respiratory syncytial virus F protein across simulated human infant gastrointestinal digestion. Journal of Functional Foods. 73(104115);
39. Sah, B. N. P., Hauser, B. R., Lueangsakulthai, J., Kim, B. J., Scottoline, B. P., Pastey, M. K., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Partial Degradation of Recombinant Antibody Functional Activity During Infant Gastrointestinal Digestion: Implications For Oral Antibody Supplementation. Frontiers in Nutrition, Nutritional Immunology. 7(130); 10.3389/fnut.2020.00130
40. Demers-Mathieu, V. Qu, Y., Sah, B. N. P., Lueangsakulthai, J., Underwood, M. A., Scottoline, B., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Binding and neutralizing capacity of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-specific recombinant IgG against RSV in human milk, gastric and intestinal fluids from infants. Nutrients. Nutritional Immunology. 12(7), 1904;
41. Demers-Mathieu, V., Huston, R. K., Markell, A. M., McCulley, E. A., Martin, R. L., Dallas, D. C. (2020). Impact of pertussis-specific IgA, IgM, and IgG antibodies in mother’s own breast milk and donor breast milk during preterm infant digestion. Pediatric Research.
42. Kim, B. J., Lueangsakulthai, J., Sah, B. N. P., Scottoline, B., P., Dallas D. C. (2020). Quantitative Analysis of Antibody Digestion Across the Infant Digestive Tract Using Mass Spectrometry with Parallel Reaction Monitoring. Foods. 9(6), 759;
43. Demers-Mathieu, V. Huston, R. K., Dallas, D. C. (2020) Cytokine expression by human macrophage-like cells derived from the monocytic cell line THP-1 differs between treatment with milk from preterm- and term-delivering mothers and pasteurized donor milk. Molecules. 25(10), 2376.
44. Lueangsakulthai, J., Sah, B. N. P. , Scottoline, B. P., Dallas, D. C. (2020) Survival of Respiratory Syncytial Virus F Protein-Specific Recombinant Monoclonal Antibodies (IgG, IgA and sIgA) and Naturally-Occurring Antibodies (IgG and sIgA/IgA) in an Ex Vivo Infant Digestion Model. Nutrients. Nutritional Immunology. 12(3), 621;
45. Weinborn, V., Li, Y., Shah, I. M., Yu, H., Dallas, D. C., German, J. B., Mills, D. A., Chen, X., Barile, D. (2020) Production of functional mimics of human milk oligosaccharides by enzymatic glycosylation of bovine milk oligosaccharides. International Dairy Journal. 102. doi: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2019.104583.
46. Kang, Y. Lee, M. Bae, Y-.K. Park, J-.Y. Lee. Astaxanthin inhibits alcohol-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in macrophages in a sirtuin 1-dependent manner. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85:108477. epub ahead of print on August 12, 2020.
47. M-.B. Kim, Y. Lee, M. Bae, H. Kang, T.X. Pham, S. Hu, J-.Y. Lee, Y-.K Park. Comprehensive characterization of metabolic, inflammatory and fibrotic changes in a mouse model of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85:108463. epub ahead of print on July 10, 2020.
48. Hu, M. Bae, Y-.K. Park, J-.Y. Lee. n-3 PUFA inhibit TGFb1-induced pro-fibrogenic gene expression by ameliorating the repression of PPARg in hepatic stellate cells. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 85;108478. epub ahead of print on June 15, 2020.
49. Bae, Y. Lee, T. X. Pham, Y-.K. Park, S. Hu, J-.Y. Lee. Astaxanthin inhibits the reduction of glycolysis during the activation of hepatic stellate cells. Life Sci 2020; 256: 117926. epub ahead of print on June 12, 2020.
50. C. Donepudi, G. J. Smith, O. Aladeloku, Y. Lee, S. J. Toro, M. Phof, A. L. Slitt, J-.Y. Lee, J. D. Schuetz, L. Wang, J. E. Manautou. Lack of multidrug-resistance associated protein 4 worsens partial hepatectomy-induced hepatic steatosis. Toxicol Sci 2020; 175:301-311. epub ahead of print on March 6, 2020.
51. L. Miller, C. Jiang, G. H. Norris, C. Carcia, S. Seibel, L. Anto, J-.Y. Lee, C. N. Blesso. Cow’s milk polar lipids reduce atherogenic lipoprotein cholesterol, modulate gut microbiota, and attenuate atherosclerosis development in LDL-receptor knockout mice fed a Western-type diet. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 79: 108351. epub ahead of print on Jan 23, 2020.
52. Bae, M-.B. Kim, Y-.K. Park, J-.Y. Lee. Health benefits of fucoxanthin in the prevention of chronic disease. BBA Mol Cell Biol of Lipids 2020; 1865:158618. epub ahead of print on January 10, 2020.
53. Hu, E-.H. Cho, J-.Y. Lee. Histone deacetylase 9: Its role in the pathogenesis of diabetes and other chronic diseases. Diabetes Metab J 2020; 44: 234-244. epub ahead of print on March 24, 2020
54. Hu, S. Hu, E. Fleming, J-.Y. Lee, Y. Luo. Chitosan-Caseinate-Dextran Ternary Complex Nanoparticles for Potential Oral Delivery of Astaxanthin with Significantly Improved Bioactivity. Int J. Biol Macromole 2020; 151: 747-756.
55. Hu, J-.Y. Lee, Y. Luo. Nanoparticles targeting hepatic stellate cells for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Engeneered Sci 2019; 6:12-21.
56. Wong CP, Dashner-Titus EJ, Alvarez SC, Chase TT, Hudson LG, Ho E. (2019) Zinc Deficiency and Arsenic Exposure Can Act Both Independently or Cooperatively to Affect Zinc Status, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammatory Response. Biol Trace Elem Res.. doi: 1007/s12011-019- 1631-z
57. Rajendran P, Johnson G, Li L, Chen YS, Dashwood M, Nguyen N, Ulusan A, Ertem F, Zhang M, Li J, Sun D, Huang Y, Wang S, Leung HC, Lieberman D, Beaver L, Ho E, Bedford M, Chang K, Vilar E, Dashwood R. (2019) Acetylation of CCAR2 Establishes a BET/BRD9 Acetyl Switch in Response to Combined Deacetylase and Bromodomain Inhibition. Cancer Res. 2019 Mar 1;79(5):918-927. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-18-2003. Epub 2019 Jan 14. PMID: 3064301
58. Cao AL, Beaver LM, Wong CP, Hudson LG, Ho E. (2019) Zinc deficiency alters the susceptibility of pancreatic beta cells (INS-1) to arsenic exposure. 2019 Dec;32(6):845-859. doi: 10.1007/s10534-019-00217-0. Epub 2019 Sep 21
59. Wallace TC, Bultman S, D'Adamo C, Daniel CR, Debelius J, Ho E, Eliassen H, Lemanne D, Mukherjee P, Seyfried TN, Tian Q, Vahdat LT (2019). Personalized Nutrition in Disrupting Cancer - Proceedings From the 2017 American College of Nutrition Annual Meeting. J Am Coll Nutr. 2019 Jan;38(1):1-14. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2018.1500499.
60. Zhang Z, Garzotto M, Davis EW 2nd, Mori M, Stoller WA, Farris PE, Wong CP, Beaver LM, Thomas GV, Williams DE, Dashwood RH, Hendrix DA, Ho E, Shannon J. Sulforaphane Bioavailability and Chemopreventive Activity in Men Presenting for Biopsy of the Prostate Gland: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutr Cancer. 2020;72(1):74-87. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1619783.
61. Norris GH, Milard M, Michalski MC, Blesso CN. Protective properties of milk sphingomyelin against dysfunctional lipid metabolism, gut dysbiosis, and inflammation. J Nutr Biochem. 2019 Nov;73:108224. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.108224. Epub 2019 Aug 15.
62. Millar CL, Jiang C, Norris GH, Garcia C, Seibel S, Anto L, Lee JY, Blesso CN. Cow's milk polar lipids reduce atherogenic lipoprotein cholesterol, modulate gut microbiota and attenuate atherosclerosis development in LDL-receptor knockout mice fed a Western-type diet. J Nutr Biochem. 2020 Jan 23;79:108351. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108351.
63. Hirahatake KM, Bruno RS, Bolling BW, Blesso C, Alexander LM, Adams SH. Dairy Foods and Dairy Fats: New Perspectives on Pathways Implicated in Cardiometabolic Health. Adv Nutr. 2020 Mar 1;11(2):266-279. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz105.
64. Anto L, Warykas SW, Torres-Gonzalez M, Blesso CN. Milk Polar Lipids: Underappreciated Lipids with Emerging Health Benefits. Nutrients. 2020 Apr 4;12(4). pii: E1001. doi: 10.3390/nu12041001.
65. Liu B, Lu Y, Chen X, Muthuraj PG, Li X, Pattabiraman M, Zempleni J, Kachman SD, Natarajan SK, Yu J*. Protective Role of Shiitake Mushroom-Derived Exosome-Like Nanoparticles in D-Galactosamine and Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice. Nutrients. 2020 Feb 13;12(2). doi: 10.3390/nu12020477.
66. Mutai E, Ramer-Tait AE, Zempleni J. MicroRNAs in bovine milk exosomes are bioavailable in humans but do not elicit a robust pro-inflammatory cytokine response. BMC exRNA 2:2, 2020
67. Liu, B, Lu Y, Chen X, Muthuraj, PG, L X, Pattabiraman M, Zempleni J, Kachman SD, Natarajan SK, Yu J. Protective role of shiitake mushroom-derived exosome-like nanoparticles in D-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in mice. Nutrients 12:477, 2020
68. Sadri M, Shu J, Kachman SD, Cui J, Zempleni J. Milk exosomes and microRNAs cross the placenta and promote embryo survival in mice. Reproduction 160:501-509, 2020
69. Zempleni J. Letter to the editor (regarding Perspective: The Role of Human Breast-Milk Extracellular Vesicles in Child Health and Disease by D. O’Reilly et al., published in AN on 24 August 2020). Adv Nutr (in press)
70. Lei Wu, Peiran Lu, Xin Guo, Kun Song, Yi Lyu, James Bothwell,Jinglong Wu, Olivia Hawkins, Stephen L. Clarke, Edralin A. Lucas, Brenda J. Smith, Winyoo CHowanadisai, Steve Hartson, Jerry Ritchey, Weiqun Wang, Denis Medeiros, Shitao Li, Dingbo Lin. 2021. β-carotene oxygenase 2 deficiency-triggered mitochondrial oxidative stress promotes inflammation and metabolic disorders. Free Radical Biology Medicine.
71. Lei Wu, Yi Lyu, Ramkumar Srinivasagan, Jinlong Wu, Babajide Ojo, Minghua Tang, Guadalupe Davilla El-Rassi, Katherine Metzinger, Brenda J Smith, Edralin A Lucas, Stephen L Clarke, Winyoo Chowanadisai, Xinchun Shen, Hui He, Tyrrell Conway, Johannes von Lintig, Dingbo Lin. 2020. Astaxanthin-shifted gut microbiota is associated with inflammation and metabolic homeostasis in mice. J Nutr. 2020 Oct 12;150(10):2687-2698. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxaa222.
72. Hall F, Reddivari L, Liceaga AM. Identification and characterization of edible cricket peptides on hypertensive and glycemic in vitro inhibition and their anti-Inflammatory activity on RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Nutrients. 2020, 12 (11):3588
73. Bao Y, Reddivari L, Huang JY. Novel cold plasma-assisted extraction for phenolic compounds from tomato pomace. Innov Food Sci Emerg Technol. 2020, 65:102445
74. Bao Y, Reddivari L, Huang JY. Enhancement of phenolic compounds extraction from grape pomace by high voltage atmospheric cold plasma. LWT. 2020, 133:109970
75. Wu B, Bhatnagar RS, Indukuri V, Chopra S, March K, Cordero N, Chopra S, Reddivari L. Intestinal mucosal barrier function restoration in mice by maize diet containing enriched flavan-4-ols. Nutrients. 2020, 12(4):896
76. Cladis DP, Li S, Reddivari L, Cox A, Ferruzzi MG, Weaver CM*. A 90-day oral toxicity study of blueberry polyphenols in ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats. Food Chem Toxicol. 2020, 139:111254
77. Sidorov E, Bejar C, Xu C, Ray B, Reddivari L, Chainakul J, Vanamala JKP, Sanghera DK. Potential metabolite biomarkers for acute versus chronic stage of ischemic stroke: A pilot study. J Stroke Cerebrovascular Dis. 2020, 29(4):104618
78. Zhou F, Wu X, Pinos I, Abraham BM, Barrett TJ, von Lintig J, Fisher EA, Amengual J. β-Carotene conversion to vitamin A delays atherosclerosis progression by decreasing hepatic lipid secretion in mice. J Lipid Res. 2020 Nov;61(11):1491-1503.
79. Amengual J, Coronel J, Marques C, Aradillas-García C, Morales JMV, Andrade FCD, Erdman JW, Teran-Garcia M. β-Carotene Oxygenase 1 Activity Modulates Circulating Cholesterol Concentrations in Mice and Humans. J Nutr. 2020 Aug 1;150(8):2023-2030.
80. Josefs T, Barrett TJ, Brown EJ, Quezada A, Wu X, Voisin M, Amengual J, Fisher EA. Neutrophil extracellular traps promote macrophage inflammation and impair atherosclerosis resolution in diabetic mice. JCI Insight. 2020 Apr 9;5(7):e134796.
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82. LE Griffin, DW Fausnacht, JL Tuzo, AK Addington, KC Racine, H Zhang, MD Hughes, KM England, RS Bruno, SF O’Keefe, AP Neilson, AC Stewart. (2019). Flavanol supplementation protects against obesity-associated increases in systemic IL-6 levels without inhibiting body mass gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. Nutr Res, 66:32-47.
83. R Williams, A Rose, RS Bruno, A Hanks, J Kennel, J McDonald, C Gunther. (2019). Examination of the relationship of diet quality with cardiometabolic risk factors in apparently healthy college students. J Am Coll Health, 8:148. doi: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_12_19.
84. P Dey, JB Kim, C Chitchumroonchokchai, J Li, GY Sasaki, BD Olmstead, KL Stock, JM Thomas-Ahner, SK Clinton, RS Bruno. (2019). Green tea extract inhibits early oncogenic responses in mice with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Food Funct, 10, 6351-6361.
85. GY Sasaki, J Li, MJ Cichon, KM Riedl, RE Kopec, RS Bruno. (2019). Green tea extract treatment in obese mice with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis restores the hepatic metabolome in association with limiting endotoxemia-TLR4-NFkB-mediated inflammation. Mol Nutr Food Res, 63(24):e1900811. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201900811.
86. BK Alba, AE Stanhewicz, P Dey, RS Bruno, WL Kenney, LM Alexander. (2020). Controlled feeding of an 8-day high dairy cheese diet prevents sodium-induced endothelial dysfunction in the cutaneous microcirculation through reductions in superoxide. J Nutr, 150(1):55-63; doi: 10.1093/jn/nxz205.
87. KM Hirahatake, RS Bruno, BW Bolling, C Blesso, LM Alexander, SH Adams. (2019). Dairy foods and dairy fats: new perspectives on pathways implicated in cardiometabolic health. Adv Nutr, 11(2):266-279. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz105.
88. KM Ranard, MJ Kuchan, RS Bruno, JM Juraska, JW Erdman. (2020). Synthetic α-tocopherol, compared with natural α-tocopherol, downregulates myelin genes in cerebella of adolescent Ttpa-null mice. J Nutr, 150(5):1031-1040. doi: 10.1093/jn/nxz330.
89. JK Hodges, J Zhu, Z Yu, Y Vodovotz, G Brock, GY Sasaki, P Dey, RS Bruno. (2020) Intestinal-level anti-inflammatory bioactivities of catechin-rich green tea: Rationale, design, and methods of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in metabolic syndrome and healthy adults. Contemp Clin Trials Commun. 17:100495. doi: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100495
90. MM Kemski, CA Rappleye, K Dabrowski, RS Bruno, M Wick. (2020). Transcriptomic response to soybean meal-based diets as the first formulated feed in juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens). Sci Rep, 10(1):3998. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-59691-z.
91. MJ Kuchan, KM Ranard, P Dey, S Jeon, GY Sasaki, KJ Schimpf, RS Bruno, M Neuringer, JW Erdman Jr. (2020). Infant rhesus macaque brain α-tocopherol stereoisomer profile is differentially impacted by source of α-tocopherol in infant formula. J Nutr, doi: 10.1093/jn/nxaa174.
92. P Dey, BD Olmstead, GY Sasaki, Y Vodovotz, Z Yu, RS Bruno (2020). Epigallocatechin gallate but not catechin prevents nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice similar to green tea extract while differentially affecting the gut microbiota. J Nutr Biochem, doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108455.
93. WR Quarles, A Pokala, E Shaw, J Ortega, L Hillman, R Jimenez-Flores, RS Bruno. (202x). Alleviation of metabolic endotoxemia by milk fat globule membrane: Rationale, design, and methods of a double-blind, randomized controlled, crossover dietary intervention trial in adults with metabolic syndrome. Curr Dev Nutr, 4(9):nzaa130. doi: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa130.
94. JK Hodges, GY Sasaki, RS Bruno. (2020). Anti-inflammatory activities of green tea catechins along the gut-liver axis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: lessons learned from preclinical and human studies. J Nutr Biochem, 2020;85:108478. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108478.

Abstracts, Presentations, and Other Publications

1. Andrade, JE, Waller AW, Gaytán Martínez M. In-Country Method Validation of a Paper-based, Smartphone-assisted Iron Sensor for the Food Fortification Programs. ASN Annual Conference (virtual). June 2020
2. Dominguez-Uscanga A, Aycart DF, Witola WH, Andrade JE. In vitro efficacy of Thymol and a Thymol ester against Cryptosporidium parvum. IFT Annual Conference (virtual). June 2020
3. Office of the Vice President for Research, University of Maine, Klimis-Zacas, D. Wild Blueberries aid in wound healing, in 2019 Research report: Global Impact, Local Relevance, 2020
4. Sands, D.C. The toothpick method: a novel and better way to kill weeds with biocontrol fungi. Keynote and webinar co-host. December 16, 2020. WASCAL: Biocontrol of Weeds for Food Security in West Africa: The Case of Striga.
5. Sands, D.C. Bioherbicide Development for C. thistle and field bindweed. December 3, 2020. Montana Organic Association Annual Conference: MSU Research Updates with the Organic Advisory and Education Council.
6. Sands, D. C. The latest scientific developments linked to fusarium oxysporum bioherbicide. September 30, 2020. Biocontrol Africa/New Ag International Conference. https://informaconnect.com/new-ag-international-and-biocontrol-africa-virtual/
7. Sands, David and Claire Baker. 2020. Parasites of parasites: The toothpick project. Haustorium; 78:5.Youtube video: McArthur  100 and Change     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YD38kjJqyiE&feature=emb_logo 
8. Zempleni J, Sadri M, Zhou F. Exosomes and microRNAs in maternal milk are important for growth and gut health during lactation in murine pups. American Society for Exosomes and Microvesicles, November 17, 2020 (virtual meeting) [short talk, delivered by using Zoom]. Extracellular Vesicle and Circulating Nucleic Acid (EVCNA) Journal. 2020 (in press)
9. NIFA blog regarding research sponsored by NIFA/USDA (2020-67017-30834) “Milk exosome-driven evolution of antibiotic-resistant gut pathogens”:
10. National Institute of Food and Agriculture website: https://nifa.usda.gov/blog/milk-findings-may-help-infants
11. NIFA twitter regarding research sponsored by NIFA/USDA (2020-67017-30834) “Milk exosome-driven evolution of antibiotic-resistant gut pathogens”: National Institute of Food and Agriculture Twitter: https://twitter.com/usda_nifa
12. USDA blog regarding research sponsored by NIFA/USDA (2020-67017-30834) “Milk exosome-driven evolution of antibiotic-resistant gut pathogens”: USDA website: https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2020/06/01/milk-findings-may-help-infants-worldwide
13. Nature Outlook “Do the microRNAs we eat affect gene expression?:

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-01767-x and https://www.nature.com/collections/hibdgeeijf. Nature. June 17, 2020. Nature 582, S10-S11 (2020), doi: 10.1038/d41586-020-01767-x