Nutrigenomics in animal science: The role of diet in gene expression and health

Abstract

A branch of nutritional genomics called "nutrigenomics" studies the molecular interactions between the genome and dietary components to determine how nutrients affect cellular signaling pathways, gene expression, and epigenetic landscapes. In animal health, nutrigenomics provides a foundational framework for the development of precision nutrition strategies that optimize physiological function, enhance disease resilience, and improve productivity traits. Advances in high-throughput omics technologies such as transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have enabled comprehensive profiling of nutrient-gene interactions, allowing for the development of precision nutrition strategies tailored to individual or breed-specific genetic profiles. These approaches contribute to optimizing growth performance, enhancing reproductive efficiency, minimizing the incidence of diet-related diseases, and reducing reliance on pharmaceuticals. Integrating nutrigenomics into livestock and companion animal management not only improves animal welfare but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. Continued research in this domain is essential to translate genomic data into actionable nutritional interventions, ultimately advancing animal health and productivity.