Immune System Genetic Testing

Your genes play a crucial role in determining how your body responds to infections.   Genetic variations can influence your immun e system's ability to fight off viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens.   This test explores how genetic testing can provide insights into your infection risk, guide preventive healthcare strategies, and help in managing conditions such as autoimmune diseases or susceptibility to specific infections.

Background

Why do some people get severely ill from infections while others experience only mild symptoms or none at all?   The answer often lies in their genetic makeup.   Your immune system is genetically programmed to recognize and respond to pathogens, but variations in certain genes can affect how well your body fights infections.   These genetic differences can explain why some individuals are more  susceptible to certain infections, such as the flu, COVID-19, or tuberculosis, while others are naturally more resistant. By understanding how your genes influence your infection risk, you can take proactive measures to boost your immunity, tailor your healthcare plan, and reduce the likelihood of severe illness.

Technology Overview

· SNP Analysis: Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) are genetic variations that affect immune system function.   By analyzing SNPs in genes involved in immune response, such as HLA (human leukocyte antigen) genes and  IFNL3 (interferon lambda 3), we can assess your susceptibility to viral or bacterial infections.

· Immune System Genes: Genes like TLR (Toll-like receptors) play a critical role in detecting pathogens and activating immune responses.   Variants in these genes can affect how quickly and effectively your body responds to infections.

· Cytokine Response: Cytokines are proteins that regulate the immune response.   Genes like IL6 (interleukin-6) and TNF (tumor necrosis factor) influence the production of cytokines, which can either help control an infection or lead to excessive inflammation, contributing to severe symptoms.

Test details:

Allergy gene testing is an essential medical examination that analyzes an individual's genome to assess their risk of allergic reactions. This test focuses on identifying genetic variations related to allergies, thereby helping to determine a person's sensitivity to specific allergens. The primary advantage of this test is that it can provide patients with more personalized medical advice, including preventive measures and treatment options.

Gene Tested

HLA, ADAM33, ORMDL3,  IL-4 and IL-13, and, FCER1 

The essence of allergy gene testing lies in identifying key genes that affect the individual's immune system response. These genes include, but are not limited to, HLA, ADAM33, and ORMDL3, which play a crucial role in the normal function of the immune system and are associated with an increased risk of allergic diseases. For example, the HLA gene is related to an increased risk of diseases such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. Additionally, IL-4 and IL-13 are two proteins that regulate immune responses, and genetic variations in these proteins may lead to the development of allergic symptoms like allergic rhinitis, eczema, and asthma.

Moreover, the FCER1 gene is also a focus of allergy gene testing. This gene is responsible for encoding the α subunit of the Immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor, a crucial immunoglobulin closely related to allergic reactions. Variations in the FCER1 gene may increase an individual's sensitivity to allergens.