Untitled

MTHFR Summary

• It is a key enzyme involved in methylation.
• Clinically indicated in hyperhomocysteinemia, low B vitamin levels (mainly folate), increased risk of venous thrombosis, CVD, HTN, stroke, diabetic neuropathy/retinopathy, depression, autism, and schizophrenia
• It is also indicated with an increased risk of birth defects, increased risk of recurrent pregnancy loss, increased risk of fracture or low BDM, increased risk of all cancers and NAFLD.
• Should be used with other markers, not as a standalone diagnostic tool.
• Abnormal results imply possible impaired methylation, low B vitamins, or high homocysteine (Hcy)
• Consider Mg, Zn, Fe, B2, B6, B12, Folate/5-MTHF, TMG/Betaine as other nutrients.
• Treatment involves dietary and supplemental sources of B vitamins, and a healthy lifestyle.

APOE Summary

• It is a key protein involved in the transport of lipids.
• Clinically indicated with plasma lipid abnormalities like high TGs, high LDL-C, low HDL-C, increased risk for T2DM, atherosclerosis, MI, and stroke
• Indications of high inflammation include elevated C-RP and hyperuricemia
• Also indicated with low BMD or increased risk for OP and fractures, oxidative stress/low antioxidant status, and heavy metal toxicity.
• Should be used in combination with other markers, not as a standalone diagnostic tool.
• Abnormal results imply a possible increased risk of high lipids, CVD, and/or dementia.
• Consider cardiovascular and neurological supportive nutrients.
• Treatment involves minimizing stress, and a healthy diet low in sugar and high in nutrients.

TNF-alpha Summary

• It is a Proinflammatory cytokine
• Clinically indicated with the presence of all chronic inflammatory conditions.
• Should be used with other markers of inflammation, not as a standalone diagnostic tool.
• Abnormal results imply a possible increased risk of inflammation or inflammatory conditions.
• Consider nutrients to reduce inflammation.
• Treatment involves minimizing stress and a low-inflammation diet.

Summary

• There is a significant amount of existing knowledge about genes.
• There are still remaining gaps in understanding genes and the modulation of the epigenome.
• Nutrigenomic application to clinical medicine is still emerging, but there is recent data.
• Food and eating habits deliver informational signals to cells.
• Nutrigenetic testing should be coupled with laboratory nutrient assessment for clinical application.
• Nutrients and genes work together.
• MTHFR, COMT, APOE, and TNF-a are important genes that can assist with clinical therapeutic strategies.