Krista Power

Associate Professor Krista Power investigates diet-microbiome interactions at the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Health Sciences, with cross-appointments in Biochemistry/Microbiology. Her program examines how plant-based foods (pulses, flaxseed) modulate gut health in inflammatory conditions using preclinical models and human trials.

Research explores: 1) Microbial metabolism of dietary components, 2) Gut barrier integrity in IBD/obesity, 3) Gut-brain axis communication, and 4) Bioactive compound delivery systems. Recent work characterizes pulse crops' anti-inflammatory properties and flaxseed's neuroimmunomodulatory effects during inflammation.

Laboratory employs gnotobiotic mouse models, organoid cultures, and multi-omics approaches. Collaborative projects include clinical studies on dietary interventions for eating disorders and obesity-related cancers. Contributes to food security initiatives through pulse crop valorization research.