Application of 'omics' technologies

High-throughput molecular ‘omics’︁ technologies, defining the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome, are providing an unprecedented opportunity to advance our understanding of the molecular effects of nutrition on health and common diet-related diseases. This chapter explains the basic principles relating to each technology platform, and explores the potential for high-throughput genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic and lipidomic technologies within human nutrition research. In general, applications in the nutrition field can be divided into three categories: dietary intervention studies; dietary biomarker discovery studies; and diet-related disease studies. The challenge lies in developing and apply robust nutritional genomics research initiatives that are sensitive enough to take account of both human genetic heterogeneity and diverse nutrient exposure. The ultimate aim is to enhance the scientific evidence base and the effectiveness of dietary guidelines and nutritional recommendations to promote health.