Dr. Karl Dawson, Alltech's Director of Worldwide Research, gave the first presentation this morning. He covered some of the exciting innovations that are in the near future for Alltech. Nutrigenomics is at the core of many of these developments.

Nutrigenomics allows us to understand production responses and nutritional management by letting us observe the effects of individual nutrients (and toxins) at the genetic level. The gene chip allows us to see which genes are activated (up regulated) and which genes are de-activated (down regulated). So why is that important? Because, now we can quickly and accurately determine the effect of a new ingredient. Will it enhance production, improve fertility, affect product quality?

Nutrigenomics has been an integral tool in Alltech's research into trace mineral nutrition, especially with regard to selenium. By observing genetic expression we can determine which form of a trace mineral will have the most beneficial effect. For instance, organic selenium is much more effect as an antioxidant than inorganic selenium.This research has exciting implications for cancer and alzheimer's research as well as animal nutrition and health.

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