The Caffeine Metabolism DNA test evaluates the speed of metabolisation of caffeine. Poor metabolisers should limit or eliminate caffeine intake as they have a greater susceptibility to hypertension.
Genetic analysis examines the CYP1A2 gene which encodes the cytochrome P450 protein CYP1A2 which, at the liver level, is the primary enzyme involved in metabolism of caffeine. Caffeine has its primary biological effects at the central nervous system level by acting as an antagonist to adenosine (by binding to A2A adenosine receptors) which causes changes in dopaminergic conduction and variations in the expression of some genes that lead to the known effects on the brain and behaviour.
The unfavourable variant of the gene for the enzyme causes slow metabolisation of caffeine, which prolongs its effects and can increase the risk of developing hypertension. In particular, a variable gene site is evaluated: GST008, an index of the body's ability to metabolise caffeine, because it influences the functionality of a key enzyme in this metabolism: cytochrome P450 CYP1A2. Carriers of one or both unfavourable variants are subject to a greater need to control and reduce their daily caffeine intake. The unfavourable variant is A.
The unfavourable allelic variant predicts a greater risk for its carriers compared to the general population to suffer from hypertension as they are slow metabolisers of caffeine. The indication of susceptibility is based on scientific evidence that associates the unfavourable allelic variants detected by the analysis with an increase in the subject's susceptibility compared to the general population.
This increase in susceptibility is a probabilistic measure because it does not take into account the subject's lifestyle but only his own genetic makeup. Therefore, it is not a diagnosis, and therefore does not imply a cause-effect relationship.
Results are accurate and available within 5-7 working days from receipt at the laboratory.
Ingredients
The DNA Sample Collection Kit Contains - 2 x sterile mouth swabs, welcome letter, step-by-step sample collection instructions, client registration form and return envelope.
Directions
Collect cheek cells by rolling the tip of the sample collection swab firmly on the inside of the right cheek and under the tongue for about 30 seconds. Be certain to move the swab over the entire inner cheek surface. This action should be firm but not aggressive and should not be uncomfortable. Light pressure is adequate. This procedure is totally painless. Repeat for both swabs. Please contact us with any questions.
Legal Disclaimer
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Genetics are just one factor in overall health - personal habits, environmental influences, and other factors are also contributors.
