Genes can be made by food

Researchers say what we eat can affect health because they alter particular genes.

In a recent experiment, adult mice were made to behave differently by injecting them with a special amino acid called L-methionine. After injection, mice were less confident when exploring new environments and creating higher levels of hormone stress.

Dr. Szyf said their work shows how important nutrients and supplements are. He said a nutrient scientists thought had an effect on methylation as folate or folic acid. The lack of folate is associated with a higher risk of developing certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer.

Q.HONG