Nutrigenetics

Genechron proposes the analysis of the following polymorphisms:

GENETIC TEST FOR LACTOSE INTOLERANCE: LCT (C-13910T)

This test provides a definitive answer regarding individual lactose intolerance by investigating primary lactose intolerance. The test is intended for people who experience symptoms such as abdominal bloating, diarrhea, intestinal gas, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea, and flatulence.

GENETIC TEST FOR CELIAC DISEASE PREDISPOSITION: HLA-DQ2 and DQ8

This test is intended for individuals who suffer from chronic fatigue, iron-deficiency anemia, unexplained weight loss, those with relatives affected by Celiac Disease, or individuals who have received an unclear diagnosis regarding celiac disease.
The genetic test identifies predisposition haplotypes (HLA-DQ2 and DQ8), revealing a possible genetic predisposition to Celiac Disease.

GENETIC TEST FOR HISTAMINE SENSITIVITY: AOC1 4586G/T (rs2052129), AOC1 4106C/G (rs1049793), AOC1 995C/T (rs1049742); AOC1 47C/T (rs10156191)

Histamine is a substance produced by the body during digestion. Some individuals, after consuming foods that promote high histamine production (for example chocolate, citrus fruits, and dried fruits), may experience reactions similar to allergies.
Knowing whether one is sensitive to histamine allows monitoring the consumption of these substances and managing related symptoms.

GENETIC TEST FOR CAFFEINE SENSITIVITY: CYP1A2 (1F1*A)

This test is intended for consumers of coffee, tea, and all foods containing caffeine. The CYP1A2 gene is responsible for metabolizing caffeine, and in some individuals a genetic variant may cause slower metabolism. In these individuals, attention should be paid to the amount of caffeine consumed because of an increased risk of heart attack.

GENETIC TEST FOR NICKEL SENSITIVITY: FLG and TNFa

Nickel is a metal found in many food and non-food products. People who suffer from nickel hypersensitivity may experience issues ranging from dermatitis to headaches.
The test, performed with a buccal swab, identifies the two genes involved in sensitivity: FLG and TNFa.

GENETIC TEST FOR ALCOHOL SENSITIVITY: ALDH2 (E504K), ADH2 (H48R), ADH1C (I350V)

Alcohol sensitivity arises from genetic defects that alter the production of enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism, resulting in an inability to properly metabolize consumed alcohol. The genetic test identifies polymorphisms associated with proper alcohol metabolism.

GENETIC TEST FOR SULFITE SENSITIVITY: CBS, SUOX

This test analyzes variants of the SUOX and CBS genes, both involved in the detoxification of sulfites in the body. Sulfites are substances used as preservatives, especially in foods.
The main sources of sulfites are wine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beer, certain cereals, processed meats, fruit juices, and jams.

GENETIC TEST FOR FRUCTOSE SENSITIVITY: ALDOB

Hereditary fructose intolerance is caused by mutations in the ALDOB gene, which contains the information needed to produce the enzyme fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase. Deficiency of this enzyme leads to fructose accumulation in the liver, kidneys, and small intestine.

Fructose accumulation in the liver inhibits glycogen utilization (the body’s stored sugar) and glucose synthesis. This can cause severe hypoglycemia after fructose ingestion, with symptoms such as pallor, sweating, drowsiness, and potentially coma.

INTOLERANCE COMPLETE PANEL

This test makes it possible to establish dietary recommendations aimed at minimizing the risk of developing specific diseases due to improper food intake and to identify possible food intolerances in order to quickly restore metabolic balance.

The test evaluates:

• Lactose intolerance or sensitivity

• Genetic predisposition to celiac disease

• Caffeine sensitivity

• Fructose sensitivity

• Sulfite sensitivity

• Nickel sensitivity

• Alcohol sensitivity

Information on each individual test is described in the previous sections.

INTOLERANCE COMPLETE + HISTAMINE PANEL

This test establishes dietary recommendations to minimize the risk of diseases related to improper food intake and to identify possible food intolerances in order to restore metabolic balance.

Through this test it is possible to evaluate:

• Lactose intolerance or sensitivity

• Genetic predisposition to celiac disease

• Caffeine sensitivity

• Fructose sensitivity

• Sulfite sensitivity

• Nickel sensitivity

• Alcohol sensitivity

• Histamine sensitivity

Information about each test is described in the previous sections.

WEIGHT CONTROL PANEL

This test evaluates:

• Predisposition to weight gain and therefore risk of overweight and obesity

• Predisposition to Type 2 Diabetes

• Predisposition to increased cardiovascular risk linked to hyperlipidemia, high triglycerides, and/or increased cholesterol

The Weight Control Panel is intended for individuals who want to better understand their ability to metabolize carbohydrates and lipids and evaluate their genetic predisposition to conditions that favor metabolic alterations and weight gain.

This test is intended for adults, as studies have not been conducted in pediatric populations.

SPORTS PERFORMANCE PANEL

This is a DNA test designed to identify a series of polymorphisms that may modify the functionality of certain biological processes (for example increasing predisposition to one sport discipline rather than another).

The goal is to improve sports performance in relation to adopting the most appropriate dietary style through analysis of polymorphisms in genes involved in important metabolic processes such as intolerance control and predisposition to power or endurance efforts.

BONE METABOLISM AND OSTEOPOROSIS PANEL

This test identifies genetic predisposition to osteoporosis, bone fragility, and joint problems. It analyzes key genes that influence bone density, remodeling, cartilage, and tendons.

The results help personalize diet, supplementation, and physical activity to prevent fractures and joint disorders.

HOMOCYSTEINE METABOLISM PANEL

High levels of homocysteine in the blood represent a cardiovascular risk factor that can worsen the effects of other risk factors on blood vessel walls.

Cigarette smoking and dietary intake of folate and vitamin B12 are decisive for blood homocysteine levels.

High plasma homocysteine levels are also associated with recurrent miscarriages and increased risk of thrombotic events.

The genetic test analyzes polymorphisms in the genes CBS, MTHFR, MTR, MTRR, and TCN2 and provides useful information to determine a personalized diet aimed at lowering plasma homocysteine levels and reducing cardiovascular risk.

OXIDATIVE STRESS – ANTI-AGING PANEL

This test evaluates the individual genetic predisposition to oxidative stress by analyzing polymorphisms that influence the functionality of antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes.

In particular, the test allows to:

• Identify genetic variants associated with reduced efficiency of free-radical defense systems

• Estimate the body’s detoxification capacity

• Guide personalized nutritional strategies

INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE PANEL

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism of the body against injury, infection, and tissue damage. When it becomes chronic, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

The genetic test analyzes variants in genes involved in regulating the inflammatory response, allowing to:

• Identify individual predisposition to persistent inflammation

• Personalize diet, supplementation, and lifestyle

• Optimize immune and metabolic responses

ESTROGEN RECEPTORS

Genetic variants in the ESR1 (PvuII, XbaI) and ESR2 (AluI) genes can reduce estrogen receptor activity, leading to:

• Reduced bone density

• Increased risk of osteoporosis

• Greater tendency toward bone fractures

Estrogens are essential for:

• Achieving peak bone mass during adolescence and early adulthood

• Maintaining bone health in adults

Knowing one’s genetic profile allows adoption of targeted preventive strategies such as personalized nutrition, specific physical activity, and, if necessary, medical evaluation for estrogen therapy.

VITAMIN D RECEPTOR

The test analyzes the main genetic polymorphisms of the VDR gene: Fok1 (rs2228570), BsmI (rs1544410), and TaqI (rs731236).

In individuals with heterozygous or homozygous mutations, the receptor may function less effectively, compromising vitamin D metabolism and increasing predisposition to osteoporosis.

PREDISPOSITION TO HEREDITARY THROMBOPHILIA

Thrombophilia is an abnormality in blood clotting that increases the risk of thrombotic events. A thrombotic episode causes blood clotting inside a blood vessel until it becomes obstructed, forming a “thrombus.”

This event may be associated with stroke and heart attack, as well as spontaneous miscarriage, placental abruption, and preeclampsia.

The test evaluates the risk related to hereditary thrombophilia. The genetic test consists of a simple buccal swab (also performable through a blood sample) through which the main mutations associated with the condition are investigated.