Since its creation in 1988, our research group has introduced new concepts of calibration, exactitude and quality of analytic results, multiresidue analysis, solid phase extraction, conventional, multidimensional and capillary liquid chromatography, nanochromatography and on-site analytic devices. In the developed analytic systems, the sample, separation and detection manipulation are integrated in a single tool.
The research expects to meet the current demand for fast, cost-effective and clean analytic procedures. Strategies implementing new nanomaterials are currently being developed. Both instrumental and analytic objectives are being pursued (type of necessary information, sample characteristics, present type of analytes and concentration, detection-originating species, chirality). The resolution of several analytic problems was addressed in different research areas, mainly for environment, health, diet, drug addiction and industry. This work was developed in the framework of various research projects financed by public bodies and it could count on the contribution of researchers from other universities and research centres.
The carried out work was reflected on publications included in magazines of international renown, in congresses, theses and both undergraduate and master’s degree final projects. It also enabled the establishment of activities centred in the transmission of knowledge with companies, public bodies and research centres.
The BIONUTEST group specialises in the study of components of food ingredients and food, including nutrients, as well as other bioactive components (carotenoids, sterols, sialic acids, gangliosides and polyphenols).
- Quantification and stability studies of: components of the lipid fraction of food and ingredients; Maillard reaction compounds; nitrogen fraction: (proteins, casein phosphopeptides and amino-acids); minerals of nutritional interest; antioxidants and assessment of antioxidant capacity.
- Bioavailability assessment: a) in vitro by application of gastrointestinal simulation and uptake and transport models in combined systems incorporating cell cultures (Caco-2, HepG2); b) in vivo by determination of food components and metabolites in biological fluids and faeces, from clinical trials and animal experimentation.
- Assessment of biological effects by in vitro techniques: cytoprotection and/or cytotoxicity, markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, using cell cultures.
- Advice and assessment of: a) Nutritional and functional quality of formulations, food, ingredients, diets and/or menus and b) Food information: mandatory and nutritional labelling, nutrition and health claims.
