The mission of the Food and Feed Safety Research Unit is directed towards;
Using a molecular approach to gain fundamental understanding of the regulation of aflatoxin biosynthesis at the gene level.
Characterization of antifungal compounds and genes governing production of antifungal compounds for use in biotechnological applications to control toxin-producing fungi or other fungi that reduce the quality and safety of foods and feeds.
Elucidation of the mechanisms governing expression of genes/enzymes which govern aflatoxin synthesis during the plant-fungus interaction.
Manipulation of agroecosystems involving complex interactions between the toxin-producing fungus, other endemic microflora and the crop plant to reduce levels of fungus and/or toxin in field environments.
Characterization of the mechanisms of induction of isoflavonoids in legumes and phytoestrogen activities of these compounds in animal systems.
Integration of research information into practical procedures for assuring a safe, domestic supply of food and feed.