The BioCertica Blog

To save a life - donate blood

If you are genetically predisposed to low iron levels but would like to donate blood, you must ensure that you eat enough iron-rich foods. On the other hand - if you have the genetic condition that causes your boy to store too much iron (hemochromatosis, or iron overload), donating blood may save your life while saving the life of someone else.

Most common vitamin deficiencies: what happens and how to adapt your lifestyle

The most common vitamin deficiencies are D, C, A, B12, B6, and folate (B9). Genes are most strongly linked to the metabolism and levels of vitamins D, C, and B12. The levels of vitamins in our bodies, of course, depend on how much we consume. However, other factors also influence our vitamin levels and subsequent intake needs. Amongst these factors is DNA. Common genetic variations are associated with our bodies’ vitamin levels.

DNA testing in personalized health and nutrition: Understanding the benefits and limitations

Technological advances in recent years have made genetic testing much more affordable than it once was. Subsequently, DNA testing technology is busy revolutionizing nutrition and healthcare. Genetic testing is shifting the focus to personalized preventative care and away from retroactive generalized treatments.

How DNA testing can help you understand your nutrient metabolism

Our genetic makeup influences how our bodies metabolize the different macro- and micronutrients. The macronutrients provide energy and building blocks to the body, while the micronutrients are needed for immunity and the proper functioning of the body's systems.

The post-meal insulin response

Genes are crucial in determining various aspects of our health, including our post-meal insulin response. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates our blood sugar levels. After we eat a meal, our body releases insulin to help move glucose (sugar) from our bloodstream into our cells, where it can be used for energy.

Fasting insulin

Genetic factors can greatly impact fasting insulin levels and play a role in the development of insulin resistance. It is important for individuals to be aware of their genetic predisposition to insulin resistance and make the necessary changes to their diet and lifestyle to maintain optimal fasting insulin levels and overall health.

Insulin sensitivity/resistance

Insulin sensitivity is one of the aspects of health that our DNA influences. Insulin sensitivity refers to the body's ability to respond to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. A person with high insulin sensitivity will require less insulin to control their blood sugar, while a person with low insulin sensitivity will require more insulin.

Resting metabolic rate

Genes play a crucial role in determining our resting metabolic rate (RMR), which is the amount of energy (in the form of calories) we burn at rest to maintain our basic physiological functions. RMR makes up most of the total calories we burn in a day, and variations in RMR can impact our weight gain or loss if we do not eat accordingly.

Leptin and your weight

The production and regulation of leptin levels are controlled by a number of genes, which can affect an individual's susceptibility to weight gain and obesity. Variations in these genes can lead to alterations in the amount of leptin produced and the sensitivity of the brain to its signals.

Methylation: MTHFR Status and Your B Vitamin Needs

MTHFR (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of folic acid, a B-vitamin that is important for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell production. Variants of the MTHFR gene can affect the activity of this enzyme and, as a result, influence a person's dietary needs.

Inflammation (CRP)

Studies have shown that genetics significantly determines an individual's baseline CRP levels and susceptibility to systemic inflammation. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes related to the immune system and inflammation have been found to be associated with increased CRP levels. This genetic predisposition to higher CRP levels can put individuals at a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions, highlighting the importance of lifestyle modifications to manage inflammation.

Inflammation (IL-6)

Inflammation is critical to the body’s immune response, essential for fighting off infections and healing injuries. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a cytokine that plays a key role in regulating the body's inflammatory response. However, it is also well known that excessive inflammation can lead to various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.

Portion size

Do our genes determine our preferred meal portion size? In this blog post, we will explore the connection between genetics and preferred meal portion size and how it can impact weight gain.

How effective are omega-3 supplements?

Omega-3 fatty acids have been widely researched and studied for their potential health benefits, including reducing triglyceride levels. However, the question remains, do genes play a role in determining how effective omega-3 supplementation is for lowering triglycerides? The answer is yes; genes can play a role.

Vitamin A and predisposition to its deficiency

Why is Folate so important

Do we really want to be Iron Man?

Calcium: The power ingredient in milk!

Vitamin D

Vitamin C

To Eat Or Not to Eat Gluten: Your DNA May Tell

Body Type Explained: Ectomorph, Mesomorph, and Endomorph

Delve into the world of body type. Find out your unique body type - ectomorph, mesomorph, or endomorph - and customize your fitness routines for optimal results.

BioCertica Fitness results invaluable to Taylon Bieldt.

“I'm truly astonished to see how accurately the fitness traits reflect my situation. I now have in-depth knowledge of how my genetics affects my training and can identify areas of improvement. This is what athletics is all about, constant improvement.” - Taylon.

Sports injury: Random accident, or could your DNA be your early warning?

Training program errors, inadequate muscle strengthening, imbalanced biomechanics (ineffective movement patterns), and genetics are among the factors that contribute to the risk of chronic injuries.

Activity and Energy levels - what your DNA has to say

One way to make exercise less torturous is to exercise according to your genetic preferences, i.e., do the types of training for which your body is naturally built. If your genes make you less likely to engage in spontaneous physical activity, exercise must be as enjoyable as possible. Otherwise, chances are you won’t increase your physical activity levels.

Endomorph, Mesomorph, or Ectomorph? Discover your body type and how it relates to your DNA

Unlock the power of your body with a DNA test! Discover how understanding your body type (ecto, meso, endo) can optimize your health, sports performance, and nutrition. Tailor your routine to maximize your potential!

Testosterone, genes and athletic performance

Genes play a crucial role in determining an individual's testosterone levels, which can significantly impact athletic performance. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone but also plays a vital role in muscle development, bone density, and red blood cell production. In athletes, testosterone levels can be a predictor of their physical performance.

Human growth hormone, genes, and athletic performance

Genes play a crucial role in determining various physiological processes in the human body, and growth hormone levels are no exception. Growth hormone (GH) is produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth and reproduction of cells in the body. It is essential for the development of bones, muscles, and other tissues and plays a key role in athletic performance.

Hip and knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by gradual wear and tear of the cartilage, the soft cushioning material between bones, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While age, obesity, injury, and repetitive joint use are some of the well-known risk factors for developing osteoarthritis, recent research has shown that genetics also play a significant role in the development of the disease.

Body fat percentage

Thus, your genetic predisposition to a higher or lower body fat percentage may be important when considering which sporting activities to invest your time and effort into. However, it's also important to note that while genetics may impact body fat percentage, it is not a determining factor. With the right diet and exercise regimen, anyone can improve their body fat percentage and reach their fitness and health goals.

Power (the ACTN3 gene)

The ACTN3 gene, also known as the 'sprinter gene,' has been the subject of much research in the field of sports science. This gene is believed to play a key role in determining athletic power and sports performance potential.

Lean body mass

Lean body mass is an important metric in the sports and fitness world. However, few realize it is also crucial for general health and well-being. Lean body mass refers to all your mass, excluding your fat mass. Thus, it includes the mass of your bones, organs, connective tissue, blood, muscles and other tissues. Your muscles make up most of your lean body mass and are responsible for most of the interpersonal variability.

Hand grip strength

Handgrip strength is an important predictor of athletic performance potential. While training and nutrition play a big role in handgrip strength, it's also influenced by our genes. Research has shown that there are specific genes that are associated with handgrip strength and muscle mass, both of which are important factors in athletic performance.

Left ventricular stroke volume and endurance

Athletic performance is a complex and multi-faceted aspect influenced by various factors, including cardiovascular function. One important aspect of cardiovascular function is left ventricular (LV) stroke volume, which refers to the amount of blood the heart pumps out with each beat. This can greatly impact athletic performance, especially endurance performance.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 for your muscles

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone that plays a vital role in the growth and development of the human body. It has a significant impact on athletic performance as it influences muscle growth and helps the body to recover from physical activity. In this blog post, we will explore how genes influence IGF-1 levels and how this affects athletic performance.

Hemoglobin concentration and endurance performance

Athletic performance is a complex and multi-faceted aspect that is influenced by various factors, including genetics. Hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. As such, a person's hemoglobin concentration can greatly impact their endurance performance.

Asthma Treatment Through Pharmacogenetics: The Future is Now

Personalizing HIV Treatment Through Pharmacogenetics: A New Horizon

Cystic Fibrosis: Personalized Treatment with Pharmacogenetics

Tailoring Heart Failure Treatment through Pharmacogenetics

Cardiac Arrhythmia: Enhancing Treatment with Pharmacogenetics

Osteoporosis: Personalized Management Through Pharmacogenetics

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Pharmacogenetics Approach

Atrial Fibrillation: Enhancing Treatment with Pharmacogenetics

Gout Management: Enhancing Treatment with Pharmacogenetics

Hyperlipidemia Treatment: The Impact of Pharmacogenetics

Stroke Treatment Customization: The Role of Pharmacogenetics

Hypertension Care with BioCertica Pharmacogenetics

Pharmacogenetic Reports: BioCertica vs. Competitor Review

If you are looking for a pharmacogenomics report, you may have noticed a few on the market. You may have already read about the benefits of BioCertica’s pharmacogenetic test, but here we will dive into the usability of our report compared to a competitor’s report.

Pharmacogenetic Testing: BioCertica vs Traditional Methods

Pharmacogenetic testing is still a relatively new field, so much progress still needs to be made for this type of testing. As you may have read, in pharmacogenomic testing, DNA is genotyped and matched to known gene-drug interactions; however, there is no standardized approach for reporting this testing. This leads to many differences in how these reports are compiled and presented. Therefore BioCertica’s approach to presenting pharmacogenetic results is different from other companies that offer this testing in South Africa. For the sake of transparency, we would like to explain the difference.

Is it worth doing a pharmacogenetics test?

Recently, we at BioCertica introduced a pharmacogenetics test as a new brand product. However, since it is a new product, it is natural to face doubts and questions about its quality, or if it is worth buying it. Whether or not someone thinks it is worth doing, a pharmacogenetics test is a personal decision that depends on individual circumstances. Therefore, we need to carefully consider all benefits and limitations that these tests may have. Here we will discuss some of them.

Pharmacogenetics Glossary

Pharmacogenetics Results: Genotype Guide

Genotypes can be homozygous or heterozygous. A homozygous genotype is when the two alleles are the same, for example TT or CC. A heterozygous genotype is when the who alleles are different, for example AT or CA. You may have noticed that in the case of heterozygous genotypes, the order in which they are written sometimes differs.

Mental Health Advancements through Pharmacogenetic Testing

Psychiatric disorders contribute to 14% of the global burden of disease and are estimated to affect nearly 450 million people, and approximately one-third of those affected are considered to have long-term disability and dependency. Sadly, about half of the patients with major psychiatric disorders are non-adherent to their treatments. Although other factors that affect medication non-adherence among them are medication side effects and efficacy [1]. So the question is: can pharmacogenetic testing impact treating psychiatric illness?

Pharmacogenetics report: List of articles

Pharmacogenetics Report: A Guide for Practitioners

Pharmacogenetics: Drug Response & Genetics

Celebrating World Science Day for Peace and Development: Science as a Path to a Better World

Explore Your Ancestral Origins with DNA Testing

Exploring Your Heritage, and How To Do It!

How DNA Ancestry Testing Unveils Your Heritage

The ethics of DNA testing: Balancing privacy

The future of DNA testing and genealogy: What to expect in the coming years?

The difference between genealogy and ancestry origin testing

Understanding different types of DNA tests: Which one is right for you?

Genomics: The Science behind it

We will tell you more about the polygenic risk scoring methodology in a bit. Before that, to underline that most of today’s genetic risk scoring reporting is based on individual genetic variants that are found to be associated with a given trait. For example, let’s say a genetic variant associated with whether you can detect bitter taste or not or similar traits controlled by single genetic variants.

How to compare your ancestry results with your child?

Polygenic Risk Scores: The Better Choice for DNA Testing

Multiple companies are offering genetic tests in the South African market - which should you choose? The table in this article gives you several factors to consider when purchasing a DNA kit, but one of the most important factors to draw to your attention is the approach: the polygenic risk scoring (PRS) approach or the single-gene approach.

What is GWAS & how does it work?

Why do we celebrate Heritage Day?

Heritage Day on 24 September recognises and celebrates the cultural wealth of our nation. South Africans celebrate the day by remembering the cultural heritage of the many cultures that make up the population of South Africa. Various events are staged throughout the country to commemorate this day.

The Heroines of Genetics

The Sum of All Your Genes

Understanding PRS

A polygenic risk score (PRS) is obtained from a comprehensive method used to estimate the relative genetic risks of being affected by a certain condition or inheriting a certain trait. Instead of giving the results of single genes which have been identified to contribute towards certain traits.

Release of Polygenic Risk Score methodology - What does it mean to our users?

What is a polygenic risk score and how does it work?

How are genomics reports generated?

How do we select SNPs for our reports?

Genotyping: What is its output and how do we process it?

Vitamin C in Skincare

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and unstable molecules that can cause cell damage. Vitamin C also plays a role in the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep the skin firm and youthful.

Vitamin D in Skincare

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that up to 50% of the global population has low vitamin D levels, and some individuals may be genetically predisposed to this condition. This means that their genes make them more likely to develop vitamin D deficiency, even if they get enough sunlight and consume a healthy diet.

Vitamin E in skincare

Vitamin E is an important nutrient that plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin. It is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to various health problems. Vitamin E is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness and swelling.

Acne causes and symptoms

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, but it is most common in teenagers and young adults. While many people are aware that certain lifestyle factors, such as poor hygiene and diet, can increase the risk of developing acne, few realize that genetics also significantly determine a person's predisposition to the condition.

Antioxidant enzymes in skincare

Genetic predisposition refers to an individual's inherent likelihood to develop a particular condition or trait based on their genetic makeup. One condition that a person's genes can determine is a predisposition to antioxidant enzymes. Antioxidant enzymes are a group of enzymes found in the body and play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful substances known as free radicals.

Folate in skincare

Genetic predisposition to folate in skincare is a topic that is gaining increasing attention in dermatology. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the health of our skin. In this article, we will explore the concept of genetic predisposition to folate in skincare, the symptoms that may be associated with this condition, and how a genetic test can help determine if you are at risk.

Freckles

Freckles are small, flat, round spots on the skin that typically appear on the face, arms, and shoulders. They are caused by an excess of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Freckles are generally harmless, but some people may be at higher risk of developing them due to their genetic makeup.

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in skin care

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential nutrients that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining the integrity of our skin's cell membranes and regulating inflammation.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and inflammation on the face. It typically affects the central part of the face, including the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Rosacea can also cause small red bumps, pimples, and blood vessels to become visible on the skin. In some cases, rosacea can also cause swelling and irritation of the eyes.

Skin aging

Advanced glycation end products, also known as AGEs, are compounds that form in the body due to a chemical reaction between proteins or fats, and sugars. AGEs can cause damage to cells and tissues in the body, leading to various chronic diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

Development of stretch marks

As a person's genetics play a significant role in their overall health and well-being, it's important to understand how certain genetic factors can affect the likelihood of developing certain conditions. One such condition is the development of stretch marks, a common concern for many individuals.

Tanning ability

People with a high level of melanin are more likely to tan easily and have a lower risk of developing skin cancer. On the other hand, people with a low level of melanin are more likely to burn easily and have a higher risk of skin cancer. A person's genetic makeup plays a significant role in determining their tanning ability. Certain genes are responsible for the production of melanin, and variations in these genes can affect a person's ability to tan.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They are often associated with older age but can also develop in younger individuals. While the exact cause of varicose veins is not fully understood, genetics is believed to play a role in a person's risk of developing the condition.

Alcohol dependence: Alcoholism

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic and often progressive disease characterized by a strong craving for alcohol and the inability to control one's drinking habits. While alcohol dependence can develop in anyone, research has shown a genetic component to the disorder, meaning that some individuals may be more at risk of developing alcohol dependence due to their genetic makeup.

Cannabis Dependence: What You Need to Know

Cannabis is a popular recreational drug commonly used for its psychoactive effects. While some people can use cannabis without developing dependence or addiction, others may be more genetically predisposed to developing cannabis dependence.

Chronotype: Sleeplessness

If you're someone who has always struggled to get a good night's sleep, or if you find yourself feeling more alert at certain times of day than others, you may be wondering if your genetics play a role in your sleep patterns. The answer is yes, and this is where the concept of chronotype comes into play.

How do you deal with stress?

Many factors can contribute to a person's ability to deal with stress, including age, gender, overall health, and lifestyle. However, research has shown that genetics can significantly affect how a person responds to stress.

Ability to stay awake

One interesting area of study in genetic predisposition is the ability to stay awake. Some people can naturally stay awake for long periods without feeling tired, while others struggle to stay awake even after a full night's sleep. This ability, known as sleep-wake propensity, is thought to be influenced by a person's genetics.

Alcohol intake

A genetic test can help to determine whether an individual is genetically predisposed to alcohol intake. This test involves analyzing an individual's DNA to identify specific genes associated with alcohol dependence. A genetic test can provide valuable information about an individual's risk of developing alcohol-related health problems by identifying these genes.

Risk for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly known as OCD, is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, compulsions, or both. People with OCD may have a genetic predisposition to developing the disorder, and a genetic test can help identify this risk.

Nicotine addiction

Nicotine addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Although many people can quit smoking, others struggle with addiction for years, often leading to adverse health consequences. One of the key factors that can determine a person's likelihood of becoming addicted to nicotine is their genetic predisposition. This article will discuss genetic predisposition, how it can affect a person's risk of nicotine addiction, and how a genetic test can help.

Thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid)

Type 1 diabetes

Ulcerative colitis

Wegener's disease (granulomatosis with polyangiitis)

Autoimmune diseases

Winning the Tuberculosis Battle

Genes and the disease severity of COVID-19

World Cancer Day - Building awareness of the most insidious killer

Rheumatoid Arthritis Day

Cardiovascular Diseases: What you need to know.

Allergies - from arthropods to hay fever

Acne vulgaris - not a hygiene problem, but a disease

Cardiovascular disease need-to-knows

Heart rhythm disorder: Atrial fibrillation

Good cholesterol: HDL cholesterol

Bad cholesterol: LDL cholesterol

Triglyceride levels

Ability to manage blood triglycerides (Omega 3)

What's your risk of getting a heart attack?

Omega-3 fatty acids

Peripheral artery disease