Genes for Health

Some of the most well-known genes that affect health, and which have formed part of our research and studies, particularly in relation to various diseases, metabolic processes, and susceptibility to environmental factors, include:

Well-Known Genes That Affect Health:

  1. APOE (Apolipoprotein E): Associated with cholesterol metabolism and linked to the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Variants like APOE ε4 increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
  2. MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase): Involved in folate metabolism and homocysteine regulation. Variants such as C677T can lead to elevated homocysteine levels, which are associated with cardiovascular disease and complications during pregnancy.
  3. COMT (Catechol-O-methyltransferase): Involved in the breakdown of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Variations in this gene can influence mood, mental health, and stress responses.
  4. TP53: A tumor suppressor gene that helps prevent cancer formation. Mutations in TP53 are associated with a variety of cancers.
  5. CYP450 (Cytochrome P450 family): A group of enzymes that affect the metabolism of drugs, hormones, and toxins. Variations in CYP450 genes can influence how individuals process medications and environmental toxins.
  6. VDR (Vitamin D receptor): Related to how the body uses vitamin D. Certain variants of the VDR gene can affect bone health and immune function.
  7. FTO (Fat mass and obesity-associated): Influences fat storage and metabolism, and is associated with obesity risk and body mass index (BMI).
  8. IL-6 (Interleukin-6): A pro-inflammatory cytokine gene that plays a role in inflammation and immune response. Variants can influence the risk of autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular disease.
  9. TNF-α (Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha): Involved in systemic inflammation, this gene’s variants are associated with autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular health.
  10. GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1 (Glutathione-S-Transferase): These genes are involved in detoxification by encoding enzymes that neutralise toxins and free radicals. These genes are often absent or deleted in some individuals, reducing their ability to detoxify efficiently and increasing susceptibility to oxidative stress and disease.
  11. MTR (Methionine Synthase) and MTRR (Methionine Synthase Reductase): These genes play a key role in the methylation of neurotransmitters and the synthesis of methyl groups, which are necessary for proper brain function. Variations in MTR and MTRR can impair the methylation process, potentially leading to issues with mood regulation, cognitive function, and mental health.

These genes are pivotal in determining individual susceptibility to a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, autoimmune disorders, metabolic diseases, and neurological conditions. Understanding the variations in these genes through testing can help in tailoring personalized health strategies, and lifestyle modifications, ensuring a more precise and effective approach to improving overall health and wellness.