Macao Polytechnic University (MPU) has announced the launch of a joint laboratory with Portugal’s University of Coimbra, aimed at using artificial intelligence (AI) to explore the connection between nutrition and healthy aging.
In a recent statement, MPU revealed that the new lab, focused on nutraceuticals, will apply AI to improve healthcare, precision nutrition, chronic disease prevention, and health management.
Nutraceuticals, which merge nutrition and pharmaceuticals, examine the potential health benefits of food components.
The laboratory will leverage the expertise of both universities in AI, health sciences, and nutritional technology, according to MPU. It will facilitate interdisciplinary research, bringing together specialists from both institutions to develop “cutting-edge technical solutions” and “innovative applications.”
MPU also highlighted that the laboratory will play a key role in training highly skilled professionals for Macau’s health industry while fostering technological growth through collaboration with local industries.
Health and wellness is one of the four key sectors identified by the Macau government to diversify the economy, which has traditionally depended on casinos and tourism.
The new partnership also marks a significant step in educational collaboration between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, MPU added.
The lab is expected to drive scientific research and innovation in smart healthcare, benefiting both Macau and Portugal. It will also strengthen the scientific and technological ties between China and Portugal.
The agreement to establish the lab was signed in Macau by MPU Rector Marcus Im Sio Kei and University of Coimbra Rector Amílcar Falcão.
Earlier this year, Falcão shared that the two universities had also launched a joint PhD program in information technology. The program, introduced in the 2023 academic year, is already showing promising results with 18 students, divided between Chinese and Portuguese nationals.
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