Genetic variants influence our immune response, affecting both our ability to combat pathogens and our susceptibility to chronic inflammation. For example, we are all unique in our response to different pathogens. Certain variants in inflammatory cytokine genes, such as TNF-alpha, may increase susceptibility to chronic inflammatory conditions while at the same time increasing your ability to fight off specific viruses or bacteria.
You can use your genetic data to understand which pathways are likely involved for you, and then use the lifehacks sections to discover the right solution for your genes.
Where to start?
Summary Reports for Members:
| Inflammation Summary | Immune System Summary Report |
Mast cells can be more easily triggered in the presence of high estrogen or estrogen-mimicking compounds. Histamine can also trigger mast cell degranulation. Together, this can cause a lot of symptoms related to mast cell activation.
Mannose-binding lectin, also known as mannose-binding protein, is involved in the body’s innate defense against infections. Find out how genetic variants in this system increase your susceptibility to specific pathogens.
Interleukin-13 (IL-13) is a signaling molecule important in the immune response. Excessive IL-13 can tip you toward a Th2-dominant immune response, and variants increase the risk of allergies and asthma.
Have you tried acupuncture? This treatment has been around for thousands of years but did you know that your genetic variants can impact how well you respond?
Do you have problems with your tennis elbow, rotator cuff, knees, or Achilles tendon? Discover how your genes influence the risk of having tendon problems.
The APOBEC3 family of enzymes has a unique way of stopping viruses from replicating. Your genes can affect whether the virus becomes inactive or more virulent.
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.
Do you know of someone with unexplained heart palpitations, spiking blood pressure, dizziness, and tinnitus? Discover how research is linking these symptoms to histamine, mast cells, and the spike protein.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune-like disorder in which the immune system attacks the hair follicle. Learn about the triggers of alopecia areata, why the hair falls out, genetic variants that increase susceptibility, and possible treatment options.
The CCR5 gene is an important player in the immune response. A mutation in the CCR5 gene, called the Delta32 mutation, significantly reduces the chance of an HIV infection.
Genetics plays a role in the susceptibility to antibiotic allergies. Learn which genetic variants increase your risk.
Will you get side effects from mRNA vaccines? A genetic variant in the HLA-A gene might cause an increase in your response to the vaccine.
Have you ever wondered why some people never seem to get the flu when it is going around? Simply put, some people are just more susceptible to getting the flu than others. Learn more and see if you are more or less susceptible to the flu.
In recent research, mutations in TLR7 (a sensor in our innate immune system) might cause severe Covid-19 in a small minority of healthy people.
Do you feel lightheaded when you stand? Does your heart suddenly race? POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) is a problem with the way that your autonomic nervous system regulates heart rate.
There are multiple triggers or root causes of this syndrome, and genetic variants can increase your risk for POTS.
Is the MTHFR mutation is a reason not to get the covid vaccine? Learn more with a look into the research behind MTHFR mutations and vaccines.
Not everyone gets sick when exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While there are many factors that come into play here, research points to genetics as playing a role. Several good genetic studies have recently been released showing which genes are important in COVID-19 susceptibility. Learn more and check your genes.
Mast cells are essential to your innate immune system, defending against pathogens and allergens. For some people, mast cells can be triggered too easily, giving allergy-like responses to lots of different substances.
People who carry the genetic mutations that cause G6PD deficiency are at an increased risk for hemolytic anemia when taking quinine-based medications. This article is intended to be a ‘heads up’ for anyone who is considering using quinine or chloroquine without a doctor’s advice for COVID-19.
The IL17 gene codes for an important part of the immune system. When it is overactive, IL-17 can contribute to the risk of autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
A genetic variant in the FUT2 gene controls whether or not you secrete your blood type into your saliva and other bodily fluids, such as your intestinal mucosa. This alters the gut microbiome – and protects you from Norovirus.
Take a look into the science of the lingering effects of viruses, including chronic fatigue syndrome and long-haul viruses.
The HMGB1 protein has a unique role in activating the inflammatory response pathways. Increased HMGB1 levels will call up the troops for a big response to an infection. Discover how genetic variants of this protein vary the risk of cancer, inflammation, and sepsis to name a few.
Vitamin D is more than just a ‘vitamin’. It is actually a hormone essential to many processes in your body – including your immune system. Learn how vitamin D helps the immune response to coronavirus, flu, and other respiratory viruses.
Genetics plays a role in both Meniere’s disease and tinnitus. Understanding your genetic susceptibility may help point you to the right solutions.