Tomatoes are the most commonly consumed non-starchy vegetable by Americans, and their consumption is associated with a decreased risk for a variety of chronic diseases. Lycopene, the red pigment in tomatoes, has been studied for its putative bioactivity, though numerous studies have demonstrated an enhanced benefit of whole tomato vs. purified lycopene, suggesting other phytochemicals are at play. The Cooperstone lab aims to understand the phytochemicals responsible for the benefits of tomato-rich diets. Working at the intersection of plant, food, and nutritional sciences, here she will present data towards 1) a better understanding of the phytochemicals within tomato that may impart benefits and their genetic control in fruits, 2) ways to assess tomato intake in humans, and 3) how tomato consumption can alter the microbiome. Together, these data contribute towards a bigger understanding of how tomato consumption can impact human health.

Developing a biochemical understanding of the health benefits of consuming tomato-rich diets

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.