Food Science (2011 - )

Degrees

Ph.D., Food Science, University of Piemonte Orientale A. Avogadro, Italy
M.S., Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Piemonte Orientale A. Avogadro, Italy

Research

Dr. Barile’s research program focuses on milk functional glycomics. Her particular research interests are in combining an understanding of the chemical and biological properties of food components with analytics and engineering to characterize, bioseparate and biointegrate bioactive compounds in foods. In connection with this aim, her research spans three distinct but intersecting topics: i) analytical discovery of complex carbohydrates and peptides by advanced Mass Spectrometry, ii) development of efficient separation systems to isolate the identified carbohydrates in foods and food by-products, and iii) elucidation of the specific interaction of the carbohydrates with the human body and demonstrate the health benefits. In addition to analytical platform at her lab, Barile has also access to the food-grade pilot-scale filtration equipment in the Milk Process Research Lab (MPRL) to generate new bioactive fractions for functional studies to support the translation of these molecules as selective prebiotics. Research in the laboratory also embraces the characterization of glycosylated bioactive components in industrial by-products to enhance commodity agriculture, food processing and develop unique functional ingredients.