Genetic Testing

Everyone has unique variations in their DNA, known as genetic variants. Specific genetic variants called Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, or SNPs, can increase the risk of chronic diseases. Our providers can recognize your potential vulnerability to particular illnesses by undergoing a genetic test and developing tailored treatments that will help you best avoid them.

Genetic testing can identify both inherited and acquired mutations in your genes that can lead to a higher risk of cancer. For example, suppose you have a family history of breast cancer. In that case, genetic testing can help determine whether or not you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation that is associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.

By delving into your genes, you and your MDLifespan provider can devise a plan to outperform them, granting you access to an extended period of invigorated living. Advanced genetic testing goes beyond SNPs and looks specifically at the more complex patterns of inherited changes in your DNA that may increase the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, cognitive decline, and other chronic illnesses.

Standard genetic testing looks at a single gene or group of genes and assesses the likelihood that you may develop certain conditions. This type of genetic testing is used to identify inherited variants associated with an increased risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases. The genetic tests listed below are some of the more standard options your traditional doctor may order if genetic testing is necessary:

• ApoE – Apolipoprotein E is a vital factor in lipid metabolism, but specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can cause greater susceptibility to heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
• COMT – A mutation in the Catechol-O-Methyltransferase gene can impair its activity, heighten pain sensitivity, lead to neurological illnesses, and alter estrogen metabolism.
• EGFR – Describes how epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation testing is used, when EGFR mutation testing is ordered, and what the results of EGFR mutation testing might mean.
• MTHFR (C677T, A1298C) – Methyl Tetrahydrofolate Reductase – Dysfunctional SNPs of this enzyme can wreak havoc on methionine and homocysteine metabolism resulting in a decreased ability to methylate, an essential part of detoxification. These mutations heighten your chances for cardiovascular issues, blood vessel damage, thrombosis (blood clots), stroke, and even accelerate aging.
• SOD2 – Superoxide Dismutase is an antioxidant enzyme, and SNPs are associated with reduced SOD activity, increasing the risk of oxidative stress and damage.
• VDR – Vitamin D Receptor SNPs are associated with decreased bone density and osteoporosis.

Your DNA is filled with myriad information. We use the Dante Lab Health and Disease Risk Report to break it into actionable, easy-to-understand pieces. This report contains all of the SNPs associated with a long and healthy life in one place, empowering our healthcare providers to make appropriate recommendations for testing, therapies, and lifestyle changes that can minimize health risks while maximizing your overall wellness potential.

Our health report offers insight into your genetic risk of developing medical conditions and illnesses throughout your life. If a predisposition is discovered, our comprehensive management plan supplies practical advice to maintain your well-being effectively.

Your genetic profile is examined to determine if you are inclined to develop Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s Disease.

To best protect your health, we analyze your genetic profile to determine if you are predisposed to cancers such as Familial Breast, Colorectal, or Prostate cancer.

Your genetic profile is comprehensively analyzed to detect whether you possess the hereditary predisposition for Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) and if you have the potential to develop Coronary Artery Disease.

Your genetics are assessed to detect if you have any susceptibility towards Familial hypercholesterolemia, glucose six phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), celiac disease, and insulin resistance.

Your genetic makeup is examined to identify if you are likely predisposed to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Your genetic profile is examined to determine if you are genetically predisposed to hereditary pancreatitis.

Your genetic profile is screened to determine your propensity for Von Willebrand Disease, Hemochromatosis, Atopic Dermatitis, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, Hereditary Amyloidosis, and SERPINA-1 Related Diseases.

Your genetic makeup is analyzed to determine whether obesity resulting from melanocortin-4 receptor deficiency affects you.

A comprehensive genetic profile analysis is conducted to detect if you possess the inherent potential for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Our centers do Advanced Genetic Testing by Dante Labs on our patients to evaluate various conditions, including: