GeneWize Scientific FAQ’s
Posted on 03. Mar, 2010 by Vincent Muir in GeneWize Life Sciences, The GeneWize FAQs
Why are SNPs important?
SNPs (pronounced “snips”) are solitary nucleotide polymorphisms, which are small but common natural variations in human DNA. Each person’s genetic material contains a unique SNP pattern joined to the DNA strand that acts as the body’s instruction book, telling the body in minute detail how to do everything from making bone cells to processing dietary cholesterol to detoxifying spent hormones in the liver.
Just as no two people are alike, so every instruction book is different. Each person has several million SNPs that account for the wide variations seen in the spectrum of human exterior and physiology. Some of these processes that are dictated by SNPs and gene expression are more efficient and supportive of health than others. By determining a SNP profile, it is feasible to discover which areas are strong and which areas need extra support.
How do you choose which SNPs are assessed in a GeneWize LifeMap Healthy Aging ™ DNA assessment?
Although human DNA contains millions of SNPs, GeneLink scientist used the subsequent criterion to choose the SNPs for the GeneWize LifeMap Healthy Aging ™ DNA assessment:
- Suitable – The existence of the SNP is supported by solid, credible scientific facts. Gene SNPs are added as knowledge progresses.
- Significant – A SNP predicts biochemical processes that associate with vital, specific physiologic disadvantages.
- Recurrent – The SNP frequency is relatively common among the general population.
- Actionable – A SNP’s negative potential can be modulated by nutritional formulations (for example).
What is the discipline that ties nutritional supplementation and way of life changes to the predisposition marked by the SNPs?
Leading clinical evidence is increasingly linking SNPs to specific nutritional needs. For example: The SNP for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) creates an enzyme with reduced affinity for its direct substrate, 5, 10 methylene-THF, which can cause a buildup of homocysteine.
In other words, it means that some people make more homocysteine than others, and now you are able find out if this applies to your patients. Those who make more homocysteine would especially benefit by increasing folate in their regimen, as well as starting dietary supplements that are clinically shown to reduce homocysteine.
Another example relates to folks with the SNP for paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) who have an enhanced propensity for superior cardiac health because they more effectively block oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
This means these individuals will have less oxidized LDL cholesterol than others. This SNP can also determine how effective vitamin C and vitamin E are as antioxidants in specific individuals.
How precise is GeneWize Life Science’s DNA assessment expertise?
Several methods are used to decide DNA polymorphisms (SNPs). The GeneWize LifeMap Healthy Aging Assessment™ uses the Single Base Chain Extension (SBCE) assay, which is the most accurate method obtainable and which identifies the SNP directly on the DNA. The profile accuracy is virtually 100%. Additionally, the analysis is performed mechanically and the DNA strand is evaluated in both directions, which virtually eliminates human error in trial manipulation.
A cheek swab collection is easy but is it the best DNA to model?
Most DNA testing is done today using samples collected through buccal swabbing, or cheek swabbing. Scientists agree that buccal swab samples are just as dependable as blood samples for DNA testing. DNA is the equivalent in every cell of the body.
A cheek cell collected through buccal swabbing contains the same DNA as a blood cell collected through a blood draw.
However, buccal swab samples have these primary benefits:
- Buccal swabbing is easy to do. Buccal swabbing is effortless and noninvasive. It can even be safely performed on a newborn infant.
- Buccal swabs are more reliable than blood samples for patients who’ve recently had blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants. Such patients’ blood may show the presence of the donors’ DNA.
Where do I find information on the research used?
All of the supporting scientific research information will be available via PDF’s in each GeneWize affiliate’s back office. Additionally, each LifeMap Healthy Aging Assessment™ contains numerous third-party research and third-party bibliography information related to the SNPs tested. Each custom LifeMap™ Nutrition System product is sent to customers and affiliates with a personalized component listing included. Ingredient support information and 3rd party research will also be obtainable in each affiliate’s back office.
How can comprehending your genes give you a longer, healthier life?
Your well being is a result of interactions between your genes and lifestyle factors such as diet, training, strain, smoking and alcohol. It is your genetic makeup that decides which nutrients are used and how they are used; the way toxins are removed, what happens to any waste products and how efficient and effective these key processes are working within your body.
On the other hand, by adjusting your lifestyle and utilizing a targeted nutritional supplement regimen, you can have a positive impact on how your genes work and compensate for areas in which your genes are not functioning at an optimal level.
If I have differences in my genes, can these be corrected?
Genes are found in every cell of the body. Therefore, for the correction to be successful, scientists must find a way to reach every single cell. This is an enormous challenge for gene therapy, an experimental procedure that is attempted only in serious genetic diseases caused by a single defective gene, such as cystic fibrosis.
In comparison, the variations screened for by GeneWize are fairly universal in the general populace, and their presence does not mean you will certainly become ill.
It would be both unfeasible and unsuitable to try to physically correct these commonly occurring variations – even if the technology existed to make this possible.
GeneWize is not involved in researching gene therapy, and they do not offer therapy of any kind. Rather, they provide advice that takes into account the presence of genetic variations. Their service allows you to maintain good health by customizing a nutritional supplement regimen tailored to your unique genetic profile.
Are gene variations always detrimental?
No. Many gene variations have no outcome on our body systems or our health and in particular cases these variations can even be beneficial. However, sometimes a variation can make the gene send misinformation to the cell. Upon receiving the garbled message, the cell will manufacture a product – such as an enzyme – that doesn’t work precisely (or as competently) as it should; the variant enzyme may, for example, work faster or more slowly than is best for the body.
Combined with an unhealthy diet or lifestyle, such a gene variation may make a person more susceptible to developing certain conditions or in some cases certain illnesses.
If you have any other questions, contact Vincent Muir who is an independent affiliate of GeneWize Life Sciences who will happily guide you to any other information if available. Email Vincent at: vincent@geneinnercircle.com
Leave your thoughts in the comments box below and share this on Twitter, Facebook or other social networking sites using the icons below…we appreciate you!
Related Posts:
|
|||
 |
|||
 |
|||
 |
|||
 |
Recent Comments