Genetic Methylation Testing in Dubai : Get Tested for Genetic Methylation Test Dubai Call 0509796922
Genetic methylation is a process where methyl groups are added to the DNA molecule, particularly to cytosine residues in CpG dinucleotides. This modification plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Aberrant methylation patterns have been linked to various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Methylation tests are employed to identify these patterns and understand the potential impact on gene expression. By examining specific gene variants or polymorphisms, we can gain insights into an individual's risk of developing certain conditions and their ability to process nutrients, detoxify the body, and manage cellular processes.
Important Genes and Variants in Methylation Testing
1. SHMT (Serine Hydroxymethyltransferase) / C1420T
- Role: SHMT plays a critical role in the folate cycle, essential for DNA synthesis and repair.
- Variation: The C1420T variant may affect the enzyme's efficiency, influencing folate metabolism and possibly contributing to disorders related to DNA synthesis and methylation.
2. AHCY (Adenosylhomocysteinase) / 1, 2, 19
- Role: AHCY is involved in the conversion of S-adenosylhomocysteine to homocysteine, a key step in the methionine cycle.
- Variations: The different AHCY variants (1, 2, 19) may impact the enzyme's function, leading to alterations in homocysteine levels, which are linked to cardiovascular diseases and other health issues.
3. MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase) / C677T, A1298C, 3
- Role: MTHFR is crucial for converting 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, a cofactor in the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine.
- Variations:
- C677T: This common variant can lead to reduced enzyme activity and elevated homocysteine levels, associated with cardiovascular risks and other health concerns.
- A1298C: Another common variant that can affect enzyme function but typically has a less severe impact than C677T.
- MTHFR/3: Additional less studied variants may also impact methylation and folate metabolism.
4. MTR (Methionine Synthase) / A2756G
- Role: MTR is responsible for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a vital process for DNA methylation and synthesis.
- Variation: The A2756G variant may reduce enzyme efficiency, potentially leading to higher homocysteine levels and associated health risks.
5. MTRR (Methionine Synthase Reductase) / A66G, H595Y, K350A, R415T, S257T, 11
- Role: MTRR regenerates MTR, allowing the continuous remethylation of homocysteine.
- Variations:
- A66G: A common variant associated with altered enzyme activity and elevated homocysteine.
- Other variants (H595Y, K350A, R415T, S257T, 11) may also influence enzyme function and, consequently, homocysteine levels and methylation status.
6. BHMT (Betaine-Homocysteine Methyltransferase) / 1, 2, 4, 8
- Role: BHMT catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, utilizing betaine as a methyl donor.
- Variations: These variants can affect the enzyme's function, potentially leading to imbalances in homocysteine and methionine levels.
7. CBS (Cystathionine Beta-Synthase) / C699T, A360A, N212N
- Role: CBS converts homocysteine to cystathionine, a key step in the transsulfuration pathway.
- Variations:
- C699T: A variant that may increase enzyme activity, potentially leading to lower homocysteine levels.
- A360A, N212N: Other variants that can also influence enzyme activity and the balance of homocysteine and cysteine.
8. COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase) / V158M, H62H, 61
- Role: COMT is involved in the methylation of catecholamines (dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine), affecting neurotransmitter balance.
- Variations:
- V158M: This variant affects enzyme activity, with the Met allele associated with slower degradation of catecholamines, influencing mood and stress response.
- H62H, 61: Other variants that can alter enzyme function and impact neurotransmitter metabolism.
9. SUOX (Sulfite Oxidase) / S370S
- Role: SUOX is critical in the detoxification of sulfites to sulfate.
- Variation: The S370S variant may affect enzyme efficiency, impacting the detoxification process and contributing to sulfur metabolism issues.
10. VDR (Vitamin D Receptor) / Taq1, Fok1
- Role: VDR mediates the effects of vitamin D, influencing calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function.
- Variations:
- Taq1: A variant that may alter VDR activity, potentially affecting vitamin D metabolism.
- Fok1: Another variant that can influence VDR function and the body’s response to vitamin D.
11. MAOA (Monoamine Oxidase A)
- Role: MAOA is involved in the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
- Impact: Variations in the MAOA gene can influence enzyme activity, affecting mood regulation and behavior.
12. NOS (Nitric Oxide Synthase) / D298E
- Role: NOS is responsible for the production of nitric oxide, a critical molecule for vascular function and neurotransmission.
- Variation: The D298E variant may alter enzyme activity, impacting nitric oxide production and associated physiological processes.
13. ACAT (Acetyl-CoA Acetyltransferase) / 1-02
- Role: ACAT plays a role in the metabolism of fats and cholesterol, and in the production of ketone bodies.
- Variation: The 1-02 variant may influence enzyme function, affecting lipid metabolism and energy production.
Importance of Genetic Methylation Testing
Understanding these genetic variations through methylation testing can provide valuable insights into an individual's risk for various health conditions and guide personalized treatment approaches. It can help identify potential nutritional deficiencies, suggest dietary adjustments, and inform lifestyle changes to optimize health and prevent disease.
Genetic methylation testing can be particularly beneficial for individuals with a family history of chronic diseases, unexplained health issues, or those looking to optimize their health through precision medicine.
