This genetic methylation test covers an extensive 92 genes, and 113 SNP’s, and is performed by a NATA accredited laboratory in Melbourne.
The regulation of methylation pathways, is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Genes encoding enzymes like DNA methyltransferases play a crucial role in determining the DNA methylation pattern, affecting gene expression - whether genes are turned on or off. However, environmental factors such as diet, exposure to toxins, and stress also impact methylation patterns.
The simple cheek swab test covers an extensive 92 genes and 113 SNP’s across the following categories:
- Methylation
- Digestion
- Energy
- Hormones
- Stress & Cognitive Performance
- Inflammation
- Athletic Performance
- DNA Protection & Repair
- Detoxification
A genetic strength and weaknesses report is provided with personalised nutrition and lifestyle recommendations to help you optimise your methylation pathways. A sample report for this test can be viewed here.
What we test
Methylation
This genetic methylation test includes the MTHFR, COMT, MTRR, MTR and AHCY methylation genes. Knowing your methylation genotype can uncover needs for nutritional support such as amino acids, vitamins, and minerals and help guide dietary and lifestyle treatment plans.
MTHFR 677 and MTHFR 1298 genotypes determine your folate requirements to assist normal homocysteine levels.
The COMT gene plays a crucial role in the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters, including dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline.
The MTRR gene is involved in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a process critical for the synthesis of proteins and the regulation of other important molecules in the body.
MTR function impacts homocysteine metabolism.
The AHCY gene is involved in a process called the methionine cycle, which plays a crucial role in the metabolism of the amino acid methionine.
MTHFR 677 and MTHFR 1298 genotypes determine your folate requirements to assist normal homocysteine levels.
Folinic acid is a second type of folate found in folate-rich food.
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in homocysteine metabolism and CBS gene function.
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in homocysteine metabolism.
Vitamin B2 plays a special role in stabilising the MTHFR gene for homocysteine metabolism.
Choline and betaine play a crucial role in homocysteine metabolism, especially for those with variants in MTHFR.
Certain genotypes in the folate metabolism pathway can affect the metabolism of synthetic folic acid, leading to high circulating levels.
Nutrient Metabolism & Digestion
Hormone Support
There are multiple genes in the estrogen detoxification pathway that have a cumulative value on the ability to properly detoxify oestrogen.
Numerous gene combinations are required to determine a cumulative value of prostate protection.
A combination of genotypes have been associated with low, average and above average testosterone levels.
Pesticides, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic have all been shown to lower GSTP1 expression, increasing the elevation and toxicity of these chemicals and heavy metals. The exposure and sensitivity to these chemicals and heavy metals are suspected reasons for the increased risk of male infertility related to GSTP1 variants.
T3 and T4 level variations have been associated with variants in the DIO1 gene.
Mental Health & Cognitive Performance
Detoxification
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds that are naturally produced by certain types of fungi. Research suggests that mycotoxins can decrease the formation of glutathione due to decreased gene expression of the enzymes needed to form glutathione.
Xenoestrogens are synthetic hormone disruptors found in plastics and pesticides.
Workers exposed to certain chemicals over a long period in the metalworking, petroleum, agricultural industries and in glass factories are at increased risk for occupational skin cancers.
ALDH2 encodes for aldehyde dehydrogenase, and variants can affect the levels of acetaldehyde and therefore the carcinogenic effect of alcohol.
Benzo(a)pyrene is a carcinogenic compound produced from the burning of wood or trash, tobacco smoke, asphalt, coal, diesel exhaust, charred meat, and gas cooking.
Aromatic amines are found in cigarettes, rubber factories, hair dyes that contain 4-aminobiphenyl, and meat cooked at high temperatures.
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that has been linked to behavioral, neurological and cognitive problems, increased blood sugar, thyroid issues, and certain types of cancer.
Food dyes have been found to inhibit mitochondrial respiration - the ability of the powerhouse of your cells to convert nutrients to energy. They have also been found to especially affect those with ADHD.
Glyphosate is an herbicide that has been found to be highly toxic.
Organochlorines are found in certain pesticides, PCBs and sucralose.
PONI plays a large role in removing pesticides and is also involved with supporting HDL function and LDL oxidation. Organophosphates are a class of insecticides, including parathion and chlorpyrifos, that were among the most widely used insecticides available until the 21st century.
Chemical agriculture uses high amounts of synthetic organophosphates, creating a very high phosphorus content. Synthetic phosphorus concentrates the amounts of heavy metals, like cadmium in non-organic soils and food. Choosing organic produce is one of the best ways to avoid excess cadmium.
Mercury is a neurotoxin linked to neurological and behavioural disorders including tremors, insomnia, memory loss, neuromuscular effects, headaches, and cognitive and motor dysfunction. Burning coal for power and heat is a major source of mercury exposure. Glutathione is responsible for protecting against and detoxifying heavy metals like mercury.
Lead-based paint, lead-based dust in older buildings, contaminated water, and air pollution are the major sources of lead. Exposure to lead over time may cause abdominal pain, constipation, depression, distraction, forgetfulness, irritability, and nausea.
Immune Support & Inflammation
DNA Protection & Repair
Cardiovascular Health
Exercise
Test instructions
Your test kit and all instructions are posted directly to you, and there is no need to visit a collection centre.
Mail your sample back to the lab using the prepaid envelope and packaging.
Results for this test typically available in 3 weeks and will be published in your online dashboard.
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