ACTIVITY REPORT
| Department | Postgraduate Department of Food Technology |
|---|---|
| Title of the Activity | |
| Date of the Activity | 22 December 2025 |
| Nature of the Activity | Offline |
| Venue | PGCR 2, Nirmalini A.C. Block |
| Academic Year | 2025-2026 |
Objectives of the Activity:
The primary goals of this webinar were:
- To discuss the influence of the human microbiome on the development and progression of various diseases.
- To bridge the gap between microbiology, food technology, and clinical research by mapping the “colon-to-cortex” pathway.
Activity Overview:
On January 14, 2026, a specialized webinar titled “From Colon to Cortex: Mapping the Microbiome’s Role in Disease Progression” was held to explore the critical link between gut health and overall physiological well-being. The session featured Dr. Madhav Kumar, a Scientist from the Skan Research Trust, Bangalore, as the guest speaker.
The session, attended by M.Sc. Part 1 and Part 2 students provided a comprehensive mapping of the microbiome’s systemic influence. The discussion centered on the mechanisms by which intestinal health shapes neurological outcomes, specifically the “leaky gut” phenomenon and its role in chronic illness. The event concluded with an engaging, interactive segment in which participants evaluated current market products designed to target neurodegenerative diseases. Students showed particular enthusiasm regarding the practical application of these theories, actively inquiring about the ongoing research initiatives led by Dr. Kumar at the Scan Research Trust. This session successfully bridged the gap between academic theory and cutting-edge clinical research.
Coordinated by Dr. Maria Carina Cordeiro, the session provided an in-depth look at cutting-edge research regarding the gut-brain axis. Dr. Kumar discussed how microbial imbalances in the gut can send signals that affect brain health and disease states. This information is particularly relevant for Food Technology students as it underscores the importance of diet and probiotics in disease prevention.
Outcomes of the Activity:
- Participants gained a technical understanding of the gut-brain axis and the role of microbial dysbiosis in disease pathogenesis.
- Students analyzed the current market landscape for neuro-targeted functional foods and probiotic products.
- The session stimulated interest in advanced microbiological research with a focus on the gut-brain axis.
Beneficiaries:
| Participants | Males | Females | Total |
| No. of Students | 0 | 20 | 20 |
| No. of Staff | 0 | 3 | 03 |
| Total | 0 | 23 | 23 |