Nutrigenomics - common SNPs Flashcards
Q: What is the function of the BCO1 gene?
The BCO1 (beta-carotene oxygenase 1) gene codes for the enzyme that converts beta-carotene to retinol (vitamin A).
Q: What are the implications of the BCO1 A379V SNP?
The BCO1 A379V SNP (TT genotype) results in a 32% decrease in enzyme activity, impacting beta-carotene conversion.
Q: What is the significance of the VDR gene?
The VDR (vitamin D receptor) gene codes for the vitamin D receptor, which is essential for the action of vitamin D in the body.
Q: How does the rs1544410 SNP in the VDR gene affect bone health?
A: The A allele of rs1544410 is associated with decreased bone density, while the G allele is linked to a reduced risk of osteoporosis.
Q: What roles do FADS1 and FADS2 play in nutrition?
A: FADS1 and FADS2 (fatty acid desaturases) are involved in the conversion of essential fatty acids, with FADS1 coding for Delta 5 Desaturase and FADS2 coding for Delta 6 Desaturase.
Q: What is the implication of the FADS1 rs174537 SNP?
A: The FADS1 rs174537 GG genotype is associated with increased conversion of omega-6 fatty acids to inflammatory arachidonic acid (AA).
Q: What is the role of the TNF gene in inflammation?
A: The TNF (tumor necrosis factor) gene codes for the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, which plays a significant role in the inflammatory response.
Q: How does the rs1800629 SNP affect inflammation?
A: The A allele of rs1800629 is associated with increased production of TNF, raising the risk for asthma, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, and certain cancers.
Q: What are the deficiency symptoms associated with vitamin A deficiency?
A: Symptoms include impaired night vision, frequent infections, and skin issues such as acne.
Q: What deficiency symptoms are related to vitamin D insufficiency?
A: Deficiency can lead to rickets, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, and immune dysfunction, increasing the risk of infections, autoimmunity, allergies, and asthma.
Q: What issues arise from an imbalance in essential fatty acids?
A: An imbalance in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can lead to increased inflammation and cardiovascular risks.
Q: What chronic inflammatory diseases are associated with TNF gene variations?
A: Increased risk for chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, and cancer.
Q: What recommendations can help improve vitamin A levels?
A: Increase intake of preformed vitamin A from sources like liver, fish oils, or supplements, especially for plant-based diets.
Q: How can one ensure optimal vitamin D levels?
A: Regular testing, sun exposure, consumption of oily fish, mushrooms, eggs, and supplementation are recommended to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
Q: What dietary recommendations can help balance essential fatty acids?
A: Supplement with EPA/DHA/ALA (fish oils, algae, flaxseed oils), focus on anti-inflammatory foods (omega-3, turmeric, catechins, echinacea), and reduce pro-inflammatory foods (sugar, dairy, fried foods, processed meats, alcohol, high omega-6 foods).
