SCI 103 — Diet and Gene Expression: You Are What You Eat
Quarter: Spring
Instructor(s): Lucia Aronica
Date(s): May 3
Class Recording Available: No
Class Meeting Day: Saturday
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Class Meeting Time: 10:00 am—4:00 pm (PT)
Tuition: $265
Refund Deadline: Apr 26
Unit(s): 0
Status: Open
Quarter: Spring
Day: Saturday
Duration: 1 day
Time: 10:00 am—4:00 pm (PT)
Date(s): May 3
Unit(s): 0
Tuition: $265
Refund Deadline: Apr 26
Instructor(s): Lucia Aronica
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Recording Available: No
Status: Open
Imagine having the ability to turn “good” genes on and “bad” genes off through simple, science-based lifestyle choices. The emerging field of epigenetics reveals that genes aren't a fixed destiny—you have the power to influence them. This course is a study of how your diet, environment, and habits can shape your gene activity, offering students practical tools to live healthier longer. By exploring how food acts as information for your genes, you will discover how specific nutrients and lifestyle choices can positively affect everything from metabolism and longevity to mental health. You’ll also be introduced to nutrigenomics—the study of how gene expression can be modified by certain nutrients and bioactive food compounds. This course is designed to help you take control of your health through personalized, actionable insights. By the end of the course, you will be empowered to create a customized nutrition plan that enhances your gene expression, supports long-term vitality, and improves your quality of life.
Students should consult their physician or other healthcare professional before modifying their diets.
LUCIA ARONICA
Lecturer, Stanford Genetics and Genomics Certificate Program
Lucia Aronica's research investigates the links among diet, genetics, and epigenetics and their role in determining our healthspan and lifespan. She is a genomics R&D lead at Metagenics and has published research papers in Cell, Genes & Development, and The EMBO Journal. Aronica received a PhD from the Universität Wien, Austria. Textbooks for this course:
There are no required textbooks; however, some fee-based online readings may be assigned.