Abstract

The present mini review discusses recent developments and future directions of Nutrigenomics and Nutrigenetics as emerging scientific disciplines. Nutrigenomics targets the interaction between nutrients and gene expression, whereas nutrigenetics is the specific branch that examines the individual genetic level differences affecting individual dietary responses, micronutrient uptake, metabolism, and health. Though closely related, these two terms are different and are not interchangeable. Nutrigenomic and nutrigenetic approaches are being intensively studied for understanding the molecular processes that contribute to health and disease. Several gene variants are being matched to dietary regimens, diseases, and chronic conditions, to understand the intricate mechanisms involved in regulating various metabolic processes. Nutrigenomics and genetic services are collectively striving to develop nutritional supplements and functional food products that could be personalized based on the genetic makeup and the disease risk of the individual. In the future, the integration of nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics with transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and gut macrobiotics could likely help in developing novel and innovative preventive measures. Nevertheless, further research is required in this direction.

Keywords: Nutrition; Hypertension; Diabetes; Nutrigenomics; Nutrigenetics; Dietary components; Genome; Polymorphisms