Demystifying-DNA

Genetic Testing: Types, Procedures, and Accuracy in Nutrigenetics

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Demystifying DNA: A Guide to Genetic Testing

The code of life, our DNA, holds a wealth of information about our health and ancestry. Genetic testing has become increasingly popular, offering insights into our genes and potential risks for diseases. In the field of nutrition and wellness , it has become an increasingly important tool, which studies how genes and nutrients interact to influence health outcomes. By analyzing an individual’s genetic makeup, nutrigenetic tests can provide insights into how their body responds to certain foods, vitamins, and supplements.  

Types of Genetic Testing:

There are two main categories of genetic tests:

  • Chromosomal tests: These analyze the structure and number of chromosomes. Karyotyping, a common type, looks for abnormalities like Down syndrome. 
  • DNA tests: These examine specific genes for mutations or variations. This test is being used in the field of Nutrigenetics and our core porte. 

Here’s a breakdown of some DNA tests:

  • Carrier screening: This tests for genes that, when inherited from both parents, can cause genetic disorders in children. It’s often done before pregnancy.
  • Predictive testing: This assesses your risk for developing specific diseases like Huntington’s disease later in life.
  • Prenatal testing: This diagnoses genetic conditions in a developing fetus during pregnancy. Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) are common prenatal tests.
  • Pharmacogenetic testing: This helps determine how your body might respond to certain medications.At NuGenomics we have selected some scientific base to understand the genetic response of certain medications in some of the chronic disease treatment like diabetes, or hypertension etc 
  • Genealogy Testing  : This test helps us to understand our ancestry and genetic heritage. We at Nugenomics also providing this interesting data.  

Genetics testing in Nutrigenetics

There are several types of genetic tests used in nutrigenetics, each with its own focus and application:

  1. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) tests: These tests look for specific variations in single DNA building blocks (nucleotides) that can influence how an individual responds to nutrients[1].
  1. Gene panel tests: These tests analyze multiple genes related to nutrient metabolism, absorption, and utilization. They can provide a more comprehensive understanding of an individual’s genetic profile and its impact on their nutritional needs[1].
  1. Whole exome sequencing: This technique analyzes the protein-coding regions of thousands of genes, allowing for the identification of rare genetic variants that may affect nutrient requirements[2].

Procedures for Genetic Testing in Nutrigenetics

In India, in earlier days, things very difficult and some specific cities used to have these facilities. Now its at your doorstep  and a call away. 

The process of genetic testing typically involves the following steps:

  1. Sample collection: A small sample  of DNA is collected, usually through a blood draw or a cheek swab. Our partner path lab helps to collect a small 3 ml vial at the time of other lab analysis. If your blood sample fails, or you opt only genetic evaluation , our team is there to assist in case you have to collect the saliva sample 
  1. DNA extraction and amplification: The DNA is extracted from the sample and then amplified (copied) using a process called polymerase chain reaction (PCR)[3].
  1. Genetic analysis : The amplified DNA is analyzed using various techniques, such as DNA sequencing or microarray analysis, to identify specific genetic variants or patterns[1][3].
  1. Interpretation and reporting: The results of the genetic analysis are interpreted by a qualified professional, such as a bioinformatician or geneticists and a report is generated that outlines the individual’s genetic profile and its potential implications for their nutritional health[1].
  1. Nutrigenetic Counselling : Now the evaluated, validated data comes to the client where counselling is done by a trained Nutrigenetic Clinical Nutritionists . 

Accuracy of Genetic Tests in Nutrigenetics

The accuracy of genetic tests in nutrigenetics depends on several factors, including the quality of the sample, the reliability of the testing methods, and the interpretation of the results. In general, well-designed and validated genetic tests have high analytical validity, meaning they can accurately detect the presence or absence of specific genetic variants[4]. We at NuGenomics strongly follow a strong sample size for validation. 

In conclusion,genetic testing in nutrigenetics is a promising field that can provide valuable insights into how an individual’s genes may influence their nutritional needs and health outcomes. You can identify the propensity of certain health hazards timely before it creates any hazard in conjunction with other clinical and dietary assessments to develop a comprehensive approach to personalized and precise nutrition

Thus it’s crucial to interpret genetic tests within the context of an individual’s overall health, lifestyle, and dietary habits. This approach is the best way to protect, promote, prevent  and maintain your health and wellness. Identify and mitigate any potential threats to your well-being.

Citations:

[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/genetic-testing/about/pac-20384827

[2] https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/types/

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560712/

[4] https://medlineplus.gov/download/genetics/understanding/testing.pdf

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