Methylation Panel

Overview:

Methylation Panel

The Methylation Panel offers insight into the biochemical methylation pathway. Methylation metabolites are measured in plasma and genetic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are analyzed via buccal swab.

Methylation is important for detoxification, mood, cardiovascular health, and energy production.

A Personalized Approach to Healthy Aging

The Methylation Panel is an innovative test designed to offer insight into the critical biochemical methylation pathway. Methylation metabolites are measured in plasma, and genetic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are analyzed via buccal swab. Patient results are synthesized on a front-page Interpretation-at-a-Glance (IAAG) graphic for quick methylation status assessment. Within the report, results are shown in a methylation pathway graphic to provide a clear understanding of the biochemistry involved.

What is Methylation?

Methylation is a chemical process that happens billions of times per second in every cell of the body.1 Methyl groups are transferred and donated between many different molecules which change their structure and function. Methyl groups act like billions of switches which turn genes on or off, help regulate mood, detoxify hormones, produce energy, and promote healthy aging.

Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids from the diet are needed to keep this process running smoothly. There are also genetic factors and oxidative stressors which can affect how well this pathway works.2

Why is Methylation important?

Methylation is needed to create DNA and RNA and regulate gene expression.
It helps make creatine, which is needed for skeletal muscle contraction.
Methylation is involved in basic energy production, fat metabolism, immune responses, vascular health, and cell membrane repair.
It produces and metabolizes neurotransmitters to regulate mood.
Methylation also works to neutralize toxins and hormones.

Which patients can benefit from the Methylation Panel?
Because of its all-encompassing role in basic human physiology, the range of symptoms associated with methylation defects is broad. The Methylation Panel can offer insight in patients with:

questionable detoxification (patients who take hormone therapy, drink alcohol, or have toxin exposure)3,4,5
cancer risk6,7,8,9
cardiovascular disease (non-coronary atherosclerosis, hypertension, coronary artery disease)10,11,12,13
psychiatric and mood disorders (schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression) 6,14,15,16,17 neurologic disorders (Parkinson’s disease, cognitive decline)18,19,20 chronic fatigue21
 

How are the results of the Methylation Panel helpful?

The Methylation Panel can uncover needs for nutritional support such as amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Knowing this can help guide dietary and nutraceutical treatment plans. Additionally, knowing genetic predispositions can help focus supplementation to override potential methylation defects.