Gallstone Genes
The genetic link to gallstones centers around the genes involved in regulating the absorption of cholesterol from plants and the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Learn more about the genetic variants that increase your risk.
The genetic link to gallstones centers around the genes involved in regulating the absorption of cholesterol from plants and the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Learn more about the genetic variants that increase your risk.
To have red hair, you need to carry two variants in the MC1R gene. We all know our hair color, but it turns out that if you carry one MC1R genetic variant (and don’t have red hair) you are still at an increased risk for skin cancer.
CYP17A1 is important in the production of steroid hormones including testosterone and estrogen. SNPs in CYP17A1 impact hormone levels.
The CYP1A2 gene breaks down caffeine, several major prescription drugs, and interacts with smoking. Learn how your genes influence caffeine metabolism and more.
A genetic mutation in the SERPINA1 gene causes alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. This increases a person’s susceptibility to COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and, in some cases, cirrhosis of the liver. Knowing that you carry this mutation can be a great incentive to avoid smoking and to be kind to your liver.
Genetic variations cause people to have higher or lower levels of vitamin K, which can affect blood clotting. Learn more about the genes that affect vitamin K and how it relates to your genetic raw data.
Progesterone is an important hormone in women’s health. Find out how your body reacts to progesterone, breaks it down for elimination, and discover lifehacks to adjust the levels.
Supplementing with Alpha-ketoglutarate (αKG) might be beneficial for longevity since it plays a role in energy production and inflammation reduction.
While many people carry the HSV virus, only about 30% will get cold sores. Genetics is one reason.
Small Fiber Neuropathy (SFN) results in burning pain, numbness, odd sensations, or autonomic nervous system issues. Learn more about the possible causes and potential solutions to this debilitating disorder.
There are multiple causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and genetics can definitely play a role in IBS symptoms. Pinpointing your genetic cause may help you to figure out the right solution for you. (Member’s article)
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes dry, sometimes itchy patches of skin. It is caused by the immune system attacking your skin cells, speeding up the turnover of the cells. Genetics plays a role in your susceptibility.
MRGPRX2 is a recently discovered mast cell receptor. It is linked to drug hypersensitivity reactions as well as asthma, rosacea, and IBD.
Do our genes or environment influence how our hair grays as we age? Discover the science behind graying hair and what (if anything) can be done about it.
Genetic variants can significantly increase your risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Learn more about the current research on sudden sensorineural hearing loss, including links to viral and vaccine causes.
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)
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.
Lynch Syndrome increases the risk of certain cancers. The cause relates to inherited mutations in the genes responsible for stopping the replication of cancerous cells. Learn how cancer occurs, risks involved with this particular syndrome, and prevention strategies to implement for risk reduction
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of blindness in the elderly. You will find supplements specifically promoted for preventing AMD. This article explains age-related macular degeneration, delves into the genetic risks, and then explains which supplements are likely to be protective and which may do more harm than good.
Nitric Oxide Synthase is an important signaling molecule in the endothelium of our blood vessels. It has roles in the regulation of blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, brain health, and more. Genetic variants in nitric oxide genes are important for a healthy heart. Find out how your genes could play a part in the interactions with cardiovascular disease risk and blood pressure.
For some people, back pain is a daily occurrence that drastically affects their quality of life. For others, it may be an intermittent nagging problem, often without rhyme or reason. Your genes play a role in whether disc degeneration gives you back pain.
The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes light at night as a probable carcinogen. Learn why dim light at night increases your risk of breast cancer — and what you can do to easily reduce this risk. (Member’s article)
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and many forms are highly treatable if caught early. Learn more about the different types of skin cancer, your genetic risks, and lifestyle changes to help reduce risk.
Genetics plays a role in the susceptibility to antibiotic allergies. Learn which genetic variants increase your risk.
Prions are able to infect, causing the normal protein around them to also misfold. These misfolded proteins aggregate to cause neurogenerative disease. Susceptibility to prion diseases depends in part on your genes.