James J. Pestka

Professor, Food Science and Human Nutrition

234A Trout Building
517-353-1709
E-mail: Pestka@msu.edu

Research Interests:
Dr. Pestka's work is in the area of food toxicology and immunotoxicology. Specifically, he studies the immunological effects of environmental chemicals and dietary constituents. He has focused on the harmful autoimmune and immunosuppressive effects of microbial toxins produced by molds such as vomitoxin and the satratoxins and by bacteria such as endotoxin. Some of his research projects focus on molecular mechanisms by which natural and anthropogenic chemicals, microbes (microbial toxins and probiotics), lipids (omega-3 fatty acids) and herbal supplements modulate the immune response in positive and negative fashion. His work has been used for safety/risk assessment, prevention of human exposure to harmful chemicals, and the design of novel diets/foods.

Educational Background:
State University of New York College of Buffalo, B.A., biology, 1975 
Cornell University, Ph.D., microbiology with minors in immunology and biochemistry, 1979

Selected Professional Activities:
Dr. Peska's honors include: Distinguished Faculty Award, MSU, 1999; Distinguished Faculty Award, MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR), 1996; Elected Fellow of Academy of Microbiology, 1995; Elected to Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, 1995; Harvey W. Wiley Award, Association of Official Analytical Chemists, 1993; Junior Faculty Meritorious Research Award, Michigan State University Chapter of Sigma Xi, 1992; Carl G. Smith Award, MSU CANR, 1992; Samuel Cate Prescott Award, Institute of Food Technologists, 1988;  Teacher-Scholar Award, MSU, 1987; Wise and Helen Burroughs Lectureship, Nutritional Sciences Council of Iowa State University, 1986; Young Faculty International Travel Award, MSU (CANR), 1986; Dean's Award for Outstanding Teaching in Microbiology, New York State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 1978; Presented for distinguished performance as Teaching Assistant in the Dept. of Microbiology. Undergraduate: New York State Regents Scholarship, Magna Cum Laude.

Dr. Pestka is a faculty trainer for the NIEHS training grant.

Publications:

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