Nutrigenomics: Diabetes Perspective

ABSTRACT

The research in nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition are gaining more attention in recent years because food-derived bioactive compounds significantly influence changes in the genome, epigenome, proteome and metabolome. Studies show that polyphenolic phytochemicals affect the expression of genes involved in glucose transport, insulin secretion, antioxidant effects, inflammation, vascular functions and lipid metabolism. Studies also suggest that benefits derived from bioactives may vary among individuals. Further, the biotic and abiotic factors influencing the endocrine system and microbiome population may also vary between individuals. The continued research in this direction, therefore, may contribute to the development of targeted dietary advice and the use of food customized for different individuals. Additionally, it may promote the discovery and characterization of robust nutritional bioactives that may contribute to the amelioration or prevention of metabolic diseases associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. In this article, Nutrigenomics in the context of diabetes and its modulation by various nutraceuticals is discussed.