We break down toxins and medications using specific detoxification pathways and enzymes. Genetic variants (SNPs) in detoxification genes can cause some people to be more sensitive to environmental toxins or medications. The goal here is to understand which phase 1 and phase II detoxification genes may cause problems for you in conjunction with exposure to toxicants, heavy metals, or medications.
Where to start?
Glutathione is an antioxidant produced in all cells to balance out ROS. Genetic variants can impact your glutathione levels, which can alter your ability to detoxify certain substances or withstand stressors in the body.
The CYP2J2 gene is important in the metabolism of arachidonic acid into either pro- or anti-inflammatory lipid signals.
Exposure to certain kinds of mold can cause chronic, negative health effects. Discover how genetic variants impact the ability to handle mycotoxins.
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.
Phthalates are a type of chemical used as plasticizers to make plastics more pliable. There has been a lot of research on the endocrine-disrupting effects of phthalates. Your genetic variants may impact whether phthalates are a problem for you.
Check your raw data to see if you have DPYD mutations that affect the toxicity of 5-FU (fluorouracil) cancer drugs.
High blood lead levels are influenced by exposure and by genetic variants. Learn how your genes impact lead levels, and what to do about it.
Discover how genetics and liver health influence acetaminophen metabolism and the risk of liver damage. Learn about the role of CD44, SULT, UGT, and GST genes.
The SULT genes help with phase II detoxification of estrogens, neurotransmitters, certain carcinogens, and steroid hormones.
The Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor) signaling pathway regulates the expression of antioxidants and phase II detoxification enzymes. It is a fundamental pathway important in how well your body functions. Your genetic variants in the NFE2L2 gene impact this NRF2 pathway.
Struggling with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)? Learn about the connection between genetics, detoxification enzymes, and the olfactory system. Discover how targeting specific genetic variants can help alleviate symptoms.
The use of low dose naltrexone (LDN) can be an effective treatment for some autoimmune diseases, pain syndromes, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Learn how this opioid antagonist works on the immune system and how your genetics can play a part in its efficacy.
Discover the pros and cons of fluoride for dental health and overall wellness, its sources, toxicity levels, and how genetics influence fluoride sensitivity.
The CYP2B6 enzyme is part of the body’s first line of defense in detoxifying and breaking down certain and important for metabolizing several medications. Genetic variants of this enzyme can either speed up or slow down its function.
What are the physiological effects of mercury and how does the body eliminates it? Discover how genetic variants play a role in how quickly you excrete mercury.
Several popular drugs, such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, and clopidogrel are metabolized by the CYP2C19 enzyme. There are important genetic variants in the CYP2C19 gene that changes how fast or slowly these drugs are broken down.
Arsenic exposure occurs via well water, in certain foods, and through breathing. This article covers the pathways the body uses to get rid of arsenic, and it includes information on genetic variants that may impair the detoxification of arsenic.
Genetics plays a role in the susceptibility to antibiotic allergies. Learn which genetic variants increase your risk.
The UGT family of enzymes is 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 as well as playing a role in the metabolism of NSAIDs. Genetic variants that alter how this enzyme works can impact your reaction to a medication.
The CYP1A2 gene breaks down caffeine, several major prescription drugs, and interacts with smoking. Learn how your genes influence caffeine metabolism and more.
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.
The CYP2E1 enzyme is part of the phase I detoxification system. Discover how variants might affect your alcohol metabolism and more.
Exposure to many different man-made chemical compounds occurs every day, and our exposure to new toxicants exceeds what our ancestors experienced. Several common GST variants decrease the function of the GST enzymes.