Dear Colleagues,

Food and natural molecules play an essential role in physiological processes and can also slow down the development of pathologies. One example is the Mediterranean diet, which provides monounsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and fibre. Polyphenols present in olive oil or in certain fruits have anti-oxidant and anti inflammatory properties. Nutrition and the study of natural molecules in food should have a place in the heart of research on physiopathology.

Two aspects are therefore important to study: 1) from a physiological point of view: Food/natural molecules effect on physiological system, and the mechanisms that are put in place following food intake. 2) From a pathological prevention point of view. As food intake, food-derived molecules or natural molecules can slow or prevent the development of pathologies. The targeted pathologies can be cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, age-related diseases (osteoporosis), or cancer.

Obtained data will allow a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the intake or consumption of natural molecules and may lead to new recommendations or therapeutic approaches.

Anne Vejux
Guest Editor