SCV0732 - PRINCIPLES OF NUTRACEUTICS AND CANCER CHEMOPREVENTION

courses

ID:

SCV0732

Duration (hours):

32

CFU:

SSD:

BIOLOGIA APPLICATA

Year:

2025

Date/time interval

Primo Semestre (25/09/2025 - 16/01/2026)

Course Objectives

This course offers a thorough introduction to the principles of nutraceutics and proactive medicine, with a special focus on cancer chemoprevention. It covers essential concepts, methods, challenges, and applications within these areas. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into how selected nutraceuticals work in cancer chemoprevention, treatment, and other health conditions. This course complements the core training of Biomedical Sciences students, providing them with current, interdisciplinary skills in the life sciences, based on biomolecular, health, and biotechnological knowledge. Learning Outcomes By the end of the course, students will be able to: 1. Explain the main techniques for extracting active compounds from plants. 2. Identify and analyze selected plants commonly used as nutraceuticals for cancer prevention and treatment. 3. Critically evaluate the advantages and limits of proactive medicine in common diseases, focusing on nutraceutical applications. 4. Present and discuss a scientific article (journal club) related to a specific nutraceutical, including assessing methodologies, results, and potential uses.

Course Prerequisites

Students are expected to have a foundational knowledge of cellular and molecular biology, as well as basic concepts in pharmacology. This background is essential for understanding the mechanisms of action and applications of nutraceuticals discussed throughout the course.

Teaching Methods

Students will engage with the course material through a variety of interactive and participatory methods designed to enhance both theoretical understanding and critical thinking skills. These include: • Lectures supported by slide presentations, focusing on the principles and applications of nutraceuticals in cancer chemoprevention and other health-related conditions. • Critical analysis of scientific literature, fostering the ability to evaluate current research findings and methodologies. • Group discussions aimed at encouraging collaborative learning and the exchange of ideas. • Journal Club sessions, where students will independently present and critically discuss recent scientific publications related to nutraceuticals. • Seminars delivered by invited experts, offering insights into specific advanced topics and current developments in the field.

Assessment Methods

Examinations will be held according to the schedule established by the Master’s Degree program. Student learning will be assessed through the following components: • Written Examination (mandatory): A 1-hour written exam consisting of open-ended questions covering selected topics from the syllabus. The exam will be conducted in English and will evaluate students’ understanding, critical reasoning, and ability to articulate concepts clearly. • Journal Club Presentation (optional): A 15–20 minute oral presentation in English, during which students will present and critically discuss a scientific article related to a nutraceutical topic of their choice. The presentation will assess the student's ability to interpret research findings, discuss methodology and results, and communicate scientific content effectively. Final Evaluation Criteria The final grade will reflect: • Depth and accuracy of knowledge regarding course content • responses clearly • Communication and discussion skills demonstrated during the journal club (if presented) Grading • The written exam contributes up to 28 points • The journal club presentation may contribute up to an additional 2 points (for a maximum total of 30/30) • The exam is considered passed with a final score of 18/30 or higher

The teaching activities will cover the following topics: • Introduction to Nutraceuticals: Definitions and terminology; comparison between watchful (reactive) medicine and proactive medicine; sources of nutraceuticals. • Extraction and Analysis: Techniques for extracting bioactive compounds from plants; methods of analysis; overview of preclinical research approaches. • Nutraceuticals in Cancer Chemoprevention: Mechanisms of action; examples of plant-derived compounds; current evidence and challenges. • Nutraceuticals in Other Pathologies: Applications in metabolic syndrome, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, type II diabetes, migraine, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammation, and cancer. • Interactive Learning Activities: o Seminars on selected, advanced topics delivered by experts in the field. o Journal Club: Student-led presentations and critical discussions of recent scientific literature related to nutraceuticals

Course Language

English

More information

The teaching materials for this course are regularly updated and include slide presentations used during lectures, as well as selected scientific articles relevant to the topics discussed in class. All course materials are made available to students through the university’s e-learning platform. For further clarification or in-depth discussion of course topics, Prof. Marzia Gariboldi is available to meet with students by appointment. Appointments can be requested via email at: marzia.gariboldi@uninsubria.it.