Genetic variants about in the enzymes that break down drugs and toxins. These genetic differences are why some medications don’t work well for certain people. Our reactions to toxicants, such as pesticides, also rely on our genes.
Explanation of Phase I and Phase II Detoxification
Member’s: Check out the Detoxification Topic Summary Report for a quick overview of all your genetic variants related to how you detox or metabolize different compounds.
Ever wonder why a certain medication may work great for a friend and do nothing for you? One reason could be the genes involved in transporting the medication into and out of your cells.
This article looks at the research studies on fexofenadine (Allegra) and the Multidrug Resistance Protein variants. (Member’s article)
Wondering why you don’t react the same way to alcohol as your friends do? Some people metabolize alcohol faster leaving a build-up of acetaldehyde. Learn more about why this can be a health problem for some. (Member’s article)
The UGT family of enzymes are responsible for an important part of phase II detoxification. This article explains what the UGT enzymes do in the body, how your genes impact this part of detoxification, and lifestyle factors that can increase or decrease this detox process.
The CYP2C8 gene is important in the metabolism of several chemotherapy drugs (e.g. Taxol) as well as playing a role in the metabolism of NSAIDs. Genetic variants that alter the way that this enzyme works can impact your reaction to a medication.
Statins are one of the most prescribed medications in the world. One side effect of statins is myopathy, or muscle pain and weakness. Your genetic variants are important in whether you are likely to have side effects from statins.
The NQO1 gene codes for an important enzyme in phase II detoxification. This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing the cancer-causing benzene (e.g. from air pollution) and cigarette toxins. Learn more and check your genes. (Member’s article)
Glyphosate is the active ingredient in the herbicide Round-Up. A recent study showed that people with CYP1A1 genetic variants are more likely to have problems with acetylcholinesterase inhibition from glyphosate.
Pyrethroids are commonly found in household insecticides. Genetic variants can impact how fast or slowly you break down the chemical. Learn more about this chemical in part 3 of a pesticide series.
Is buying organic worth the extra cost? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to that question. Pesticides that are sprayed on conventionally grown foods affect people differently. Some people carry genetic variants that decrease their ability to detoxify specific pesticides, others may be more resilient. This is Part Two in a multipart series on pesticide detoxification.
Is buying organic worth the extra cost? Pesticides that are sprayed on conventionally grown foods affect people differently. Some people carry genetic variants that decrease their ability to detoxify specific pesticides, others may be more resilient. This is Part One in a multipart series on pesticide detoxification. (Member’s article)
The BCHE gene controls how your body reacts to organophosphate pesticides. BCHE genetic variants increase the risk of Parkinson’s with pesticide exposure.
The CYP2D6 enzyme is responsible for metabolizing about 25% of commonly used medications. There are several fairly common genetic variants in CYP2D6 that affect how quickly you will break down a drug.
Caffeine remains the most popular ‘drug’ of choice for a large percentage of the population. Genetics determines how quickly your body processes and eliminates the caffeine and whether it is likely to make you jittery or anxious. Discover your genetic response.
Genetic variants in the ORPM1 gene impact both the amount of pain someone experiences and their response to opioid drugs. These variants are also important in susceptibility to opiate addiction. (Member’s article)
BPA, a chemical found in some plastics, has been linked to a variety of health issues in people. Learn more about BPA and the research into genetic responses to this chemical.
The CYP3A family of genes is involved in metabolizing about half of the drugs on the market today. Check your genes to see if you carry variants that impact the speed at which you metabolize medications.