Extensive interviews, physical exams and testing are often used to diagnose and treat medical problems, and now we have another useful tool. Genomic testing, SNP analysis, allows your provider to further personalize diagnosis and treatment options. The tool of genomic testing allows us to get to know our patient better as it gives us an idea of the blueprint that was used to make the individual. The SNP assessment is able to identify genetic variations in individuals in order to predict the risk of that person developing a particular condition or disease when exposed to a particular “environment”.
Everybody has a SNP (pronounced snip)! Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, SNPs are not ‘gene mutations’, but simply a type of genetic variation that occurs in populations and are normally found along strands of DNA. SNPs simply represent the substitution of a nucleotide, or building block, for another in the gene sequence. In some instances, this may result in no effect because it may not even code for a product or enzyme. In many instances, the code changes the effect of a gene, which may be common or unique and may also be (or not be) influenced by the world in which we live. So, SNPs are simply another tool in the toolbox for assessing how some changes in lifestyle, diet and other factors may improve how the body reacts or operates. Not all SNPs result in changes to function and some people have changes in the body’s enzymes or functions without having a SNP. Below are some groups of SNPs for which there is some evidence of clinical significance. These may be assessed and reviewed that may enhance your health and function
- Methylation
- Vitamin
- Oxidative Stress
- Training and Performance
- Mental Health/Neurotransmitters
Once we are able to understand an individual’s genomic strengths and weaknesses, the ability to make specific recommendations regarding personalized therapeutic treatments such as lifestyles changes, environmental changes, dietary and supplement changes can get you on your customized road to wellness. Call Dr. Mainier to inquire about this unique and informative analysis.
