GeneWize Life Sciences - DNA Guided Superfoods
Your Foundation for Optimal Wellness

How accurate is this testing technology? There are several types of methods to determine DNA polymorphisms (SNPs). GeneLink utilizes the Single Base Chain Extension (SBCE) assay which is the most accurate method available to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms. The SBCE assay identifies the (SNP) directly on the DNA. The profile accuracy is nearly 100%. The assay is performed robotically, which virtually eliminates human error in sample manipulation. In rare instances, when a particular SNP area of a profile ‘does not read,’ it is repeated. All repeats thus far have been successful.

What is the science behind the determination of a need for Basic Support, Added support and Maximum support? There are two copies of every gene, one from each parent. The SNP analysis examines each copy. Moreover, for each gene copy, the SNP will exist as either variant A (e.g., desirable) or variant B (e.g., undesirable). All individuals will end up with SNP reads of: A/A or A/B or B/B. In this case: If a person has B/B (Maximum Support is suggested) because that person has two undesirable SNPs. If a person has A/B (which is less desirable - Added Support is suggested) because that person has only one of the desirable SNPs and an undesirable SNP. If a person has A/A (Basic Support is recommended) the person receives a basic formulation. (GeneLink agrees with the Journal of American Medicine, The Council for Responsible Nutrition and studies demonstrating that everyone benefits from at least a basic nutritional supplementation or skin-care protection). GeneLink’s statistical results demonstrate that virtually everyone tested will require Added Support and/or Maximum Support in at least one or two gene SNP areas.

Why are the SNPs used in GeneLink’s profiles selected over millions of others? There are millions of SNPs. However, only certain subsets are associated with increased risk for disease and physiologic health conditions. GeneLink selects only ‘functional SNPs’ which indicate poor enzyme function via epidemiological or biochemical studies. Additionally, GeneLink selects only those SNPs which can be addressed using nutrients or formulations or lifestyle modifications. These SNPs physically reside in either the coding region (protein portion) of the gene which can alter enzyme function or they reside in the promoter region which affects the level of expression of the gene in question.

What is the clinical research that ties nutritional supplements and topical skin treatments to support SNP predispositions? All of the enzymes represented in the SNP profile have been well-studied and there is biochemical evidence in almost every instance that correlates why an enzyme affected by the SNP does not function properly. Additionally, there is leading clinical evidence linking SNPs to nutrition. Thus, for major enzymatic players of oxidative stress, there is a clear fit with the genetics, epidemiology and biochemistry. For several of the SNPs, there is a direct link between having the SNP and being able to lower oxidative stress or the potential health risks associated with oxidative stress by the ingestion or application of particular antioxidant nutrients and active ingredients. For example the SNP for methylenetetrahyrofolate reductase (MTHFR or Heart, Circulatory Health-2), produces an enzyme with decreased affinity (Km) for its direct substrate, 5,10 methylene-THF, which can cause a build up of homocysteine, which is deleterious to heart health. Increasing folic acid (upstream substrate) or the product of the enzyme reaction (5 methyl-THF) can ameliorate the build-up of homocysteine. For some SNPs there is no definitive clinical evidence available to date that directly links the benefit of a nutrient to the SNP. These studies will come in time. Nevertheless, the fact that the biochemical parameters for all of the SNPs are so well known provides a rational nutritional approach to addressing unfavorable physiological conditions, based on scientific knowledge of how the SNP specifically functions.

Who conducted the research and who endorses GeneLink’s research? GeneLink’s medical and scientific advisors along with independent academic laboratories and medical centers have conducted nearly 100% of the work. GeneLink’s medical and scientific advisors hold positions at major research institutions. The science and technical information behind GeneLink’s technology has been favorably reviewed by the scientific staff department of our various clients and collaborative partners. Studies have been statistically quantified and involve sophisticated molecular biology, biochemistry and genetic analyses.