AI is the powerhouse of the cell
Imagine a world where artificial intelligence is used not only to help students with studying or to plan out vacations but also to advance the field of nutrition. In a recent review in the journal Cell Host & Microbe by Baylor researchers Dr. Leigh Greathouse, associate professor of nutrition sciences, and Dr. Anakan Choudhury, postdoctoral research fellow, the complexities of gut microbiomes in human health are addressed, along with how AI simulations integrate nutrient databases.
Greathouse, a cancer biologist and registered dietitian, and Choudhury, who works in the Greathouse Lab, conduct research involving “exploring key bacterial markers in the gut microbiomes of colon cancer patients and identifying key dietary indicators for a healthy gut microbiome to improve their response to chemotherapy/ immunotherapy.”
To help with this advancement, Baylor researchers point to a tool referred to as a digital gut twin that uses artificial intelligence and biological data to simulate how the gut responds to diet, drugs, and disease.
In an article from Baylor, Greathouse said, “With the rapid advancement of AI, we have the potential to transform how we approach precision nutrition. It augments the health provider’s ability to make more informed decisions about interventions for that patient based on their physiological response or makeup.”
Couldn’t hear you over our R1 status
Continuing with technological advancements, Baylor University announced the university-wide adoption of ForagerOne — a platform that matches research with aspiring student researchers, allowing faculty to forge connections with aspiring undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral researchers.
In an article from Baylor, Provost Nancy Brickhouse, Ph.D. stated, “By making the process of connecting students and faculty clearer and more accessible, we’re continuing to invest in a research culture that values mentorship, exploration, and the integration of learning with discovery.”
This system will allow students interested in specific research to be matched with faculty and research groups that specify within their interests. Associate dean for engaged learning, Andrew Hogue, Ph.D., went on to describe ForagerOne as a “a simpler process for engaging students and connecting across disciplines.” The future of Baylor’s research can only get better with stronger work relationships and a plethora of opportunities.
Improving our H2O
Many researchers at Baylor focused not only on maintaining but also improving our water quality. Distinguished Professor of Environmental Science and Biomedical Studies Dr. Bryan Brooks is known for his leading expertise in water quality, sustainability, public health, and more. In a Baylor Proud post, he stated, “Clean water is Biblical. I would suggest that maybe no other science, engineering or health topic aligns better with Baylor’s unique and distinctive mission.” Baylor water researchers fill in the blanks to receive international recognition for work in bodies of water, cities, wastewater treatment plants, and more.
A promising season
After their 48-45 win over SMU, the Bears are set to play No. 24 Arizona State on at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at McLane Stadium. This weekend, the Bears are wrapping up their non-conference part of the season against Samford at McLane Stadium, set for an 11 a.m. game. This is the third match-up between the teams in program history, with the most recent time being a 48-14 win over the Bulldogs in 2005 at Floyd Casey Stadium.
Family Weekend Special
With Baylor Family Weekend in full swing, not only is Lauren Daigle performing a sold-out show at the Foster Pavilion, but the Growling Bear logo is also coming out of hibernation. This logo was first introduced in 1969 after a design contest organized by head football coach Bill Beall, which won out of 75 entries. The Growling Bear became the main emblem in the Baylor bubble, remaining until 1997. Grant Teaff wore it throughout his 20-year career. The logo is clearly a sign of strength and good luck for the rest of the season.
