2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): ARS is interested in determining the impact of health-promoting components in foods including those containing probiotic bacteria and polyphenols ARS is also interested in determining how allergens, infection, and inflammation alter intestinal immunity, physiology, and relation to development of chronic diseases, from cancer to diabetes to Alzheimers. The Cooperator directs a laboratory that has supported ARS activities to evaluate mucosal responses to pathogens and allergens and has interests in further evaluating the role of diet in development of chronic disease. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): Experimental mouse and swine models of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infection, as well as exposure to allergens will be evaluated for changes in immune and physiological responses at mucosal surfaces. Cell culture studies evaluating chronic disease biomarkers and effects on brain function, as well as animal studies will be performed. This information will be used by both ARS and the Cooperator to jointly develop new research studies that focus on the evaluation of dietary and probiotic intervention to prevent the onset of inflammation and dysfunction, and enhance healthy mucosal surfaces. 3.Progress Report: This agreement is in the first year of operation and is part of a continuing interaction with the Cooperator using mouse models of parasitic infection and cell culture systems to evaluate products added to the diet that influence health. Expanding the scope of the studies will be the objective of the work in the coming year.