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Research

The Nutrition Toxicology research group explores molecular and cellular mechanisms through which diet and food-borne (potentially harmful) substances influence biological processes. Our research focuses on genomic stability, aging, and molecular pathways implicated in the development of chronic diseases. By employing 3R-compliant model systems such as C. elegans and human cell cultures, we investigate toxicological mechanisms of action in detail. These insights are translated into health- and regulatory-relevant contexts to scientifically support preventive nutrition strategies.

At the crossroads of toxicology, nutrition, and aging research

Our research explores how dietary components and toxic exposures interact with aging-related processes. We operate at the interface of toxicology, nutritional science, and gerontology, aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive these interactions.

Why It Matters

While genetics account for around one-third of human lifespan variability, environmental and dietary factors also significantly shape longevity and health. Accelerated skin aging from UV exposure and health decline in smokers illustrate this impact. Increasing evidence suggests that certain food constituent - such as arsenic, alcohol, and DNA-damaging agents - may contribute to aging and age-related diseases. However, deeper mechanistic insight is needed.

Scientific Questions

  • How do diet and potentially toxic food constituents influence cellular and molecular aging mechanisms?
  • Do organisms and biological systems of different ages respond differently to toxic exposures?
  • What are the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms underlying these effects?
  • How do experimental mixtures of food-derived substances and toxicants interact mechanistically?
  • Can we derive preventive strategies - nutritional,pharmacological, or regulatory - to promote healthy aging?

Focus Areas

  • DNA damage and repair mechanisms
  • Genetic toxicology
  • PARPs and poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation
  • NAD⁺ metabolism and NAD⁺-boosting strategies
  • Mixture toxicology and the exposome

Model Systems & Methodologies

Our research exclusively uses 3R-compliant biological models, including:

  • Human cell culture systems
  • C. elegans, an established organismic model for aging, nutrition, and toxicology

These models support targeted genetic manipulation (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9, RNAi), fluorescence-based assays, bioimaging readouts, and mass spectrometry for the analysis of biochemical and toxicological endpoints.

Collaborations

We collaborate with academic and non-academic partners at local, national, and international levels - and are open to new research partnerships.