Often ignored but mental health care is an important aspect of well-being. When working on mental health, it’s important to know where to head for the appropriate treatment, a psychiatrist or psychologist. These are two common roles in mental healthcare, and here we have explored the differences between them, their areas of expertise, and, based […]
Introduction: You’re not alone in asking yourself, “What is keeping me awake despite feeling so tired?” while wide awake and tossing in bed. Long, quiet nights spent awake can feel isolating—but this is where a new and personalised approach can help. Instead of generalised remedies, we’re looking at DNA-based health testing to uncover the genetic […]
Introduction: Personalized medicine is actually revolutionizing the provision of healthcare in that it makes treatment tailored to one’s gene profile. Among the useful tools in the administration of this treatment regime in Human Leukocyte Antigen testing, or HLA typing, as it is also known; it is valuable tool in the use of pharmacogenomics too. HLA […]
Introduction Progesterone is a hormone known for its role in pregnancy and the menstrual cycle. However, it can also impact your mood. Some individuals wonder, Can progesterone cause anxiety? While for many it does help to induce a state of tranquillity, for others it seems to exacerbate anxiety, which could stem from their genetics. In […]
Introduction People diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are normally prescribed Adderall, and their focus, along with impulse control, markedly improves. In clinical settings and public discussions, one question that does come up is “Does Adderall Increase Metabolism?”. The answer is complex: the response to the medication is complex due to an individual’s unique physiological responses […]
Introduction: Ever ask yourself why a drug works for one but is toxic for another? Thiopurine S-Methyltransferase (TPMT), or TPMT for short, is a crucial factor in the way our bodies metabolize certain drugs. We will discuss what TPMT testing is and how RPH Lab’s home PGx testing kit can potentially be part of the […]
CYP2D6 (Cytochrome P450 2D6) is a crucial liver enzyme responsible for metabolising approximately 25% of all clinically used drugs, including antidepressants, opioids, beta-blockers, and antipsychotics. Variations in CYP2D6 activity—due to genetic differences or CYP2D6 inhibitors—can significantly impact how medications are processed in the body. Real-World Example: Consider a patient prescribed codeine, a common pain reliever. […]
Derived from earthworms, particularly Lumbricus rubellus and Lumbricus bimastus, Lumbrokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme. It can break down fibrinogen (a soluble plasma protein synthesised in the liver and becomes fibrin) and fibrin (an insoluble protein that stops bleeding and wound healing). Identified in 1991, this enzyme derived from earthworms has gained attention for its potential […]
Oncogenicity refers to a substance’s ability to activate genes that may cause cancer. This could involve pharmaceutical compounds, chemicals, or genetic changes. It increases the risk of tumor growth. This article explores oncogenicity, its role in ensuring safe medications, and the methods used to protect patients. This information is designed to help everyday people understand […]
In the United States, skin cancer is one of the fastest spreading forms of cancer, affecting millions annually. For individuals asking, ‘Is Skin Cancer Hereditary?’, yes, it is one of the factors. Skin cancer is a multifactorial disease, and it involves genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors like ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is important to note […]