Divergence and convergence in nutrition science

Nutrigenomics diverged from mainstream nutrition science, ideologically, instrumentally and culturally, due to the establishment of a protective niche. That protection is fading. This article chronicles a case in which convergence between nutrigenomics and nutrition science is pursued. Here we report the opportunities and hurdles that researchers within two large Dutch research consortia encountered when trying to engineer collaboration. The most salient hurdles are the complexity of and unfamiliarity with nutrigenomics, unclear and unshared notions of relevance; difficulties in organising data exchange; and the existence of two research cultures. Overcoming these technical and social hurdles will require the development of a shared 'future' for the relationship between nutrigenomics and nutrition science.