#what is Single Nucleotide Polymorphism

[paralysnooze]

OK, I'm seeing a lot of "Gi-Hun and In-Ho are brothers/ siblings" theory with the evidence mostly leading into... Them being lactose intolerant?

I've left comments before and I'd like to copy and paste them here in a post. In summary:

Gi-Hun and In-Ho both have separate mother's.

Lactose Intolerance is very common in Korea.

Sources will be listed below ^^

Here are my comments:

1) I think them being brothers is just too silly. I mean, In-Ho already have his little brother Jun-Ho, their mother is alive too. Gi-hun is just a few years older than In-Ho AND in the early episodes of season 1, Gi-hun's mother was alive.

So what the "Gi-hun and In-Ho are brothers" theory is suggesting is that Gi-hun could possibly be adopted by a different family when he was a baby and both of the Hwang brothers don't know that?? What are the evidences here? I just think it's silly.

2) Fun fact: a lot of Koreans are actually lactose intolerant! When "balanced diet guide-lines" was being implemented all over the world, it was encouraged for kids and peeps to drink milk for growth and health.

Unfortunately, people found out a lot of Koreans are lactose intolerant (might be because of ancient genes stuff. It also applies to other Asian groups but personally, from where I'm from, there's not a lot of lactose intolerant people).

So one of the solutions for that is fermented milk which reduces the lactose! (Really delicious! Especially flavored ones? Mann.)

Also, in season 1, Gi-hun asks for chocolate milk instead of regular milk. A little bit of searching, chocolate = fats = slows down/ lessens the symptoms. It's probably different for people, but it's possible that it's helpful to some. (I just wanna mention it lol)

Sources:

Why 90% of Asians are Lactose Intolerant

Revealing Joseon period People’s single nucleotide polymorphism associated with lactase gene by ancient DNA analysis of human remains from archaeological sites in Korea

Chocolate milk conspiracy

[vidalinav]

Stu(died) Chapter 6.5

Basically this is the beginning of chapter 7 except I change povs and so it annoyed me. So this is a short chapter.

~

Nesta has never liked the holiday season. Mostly, it's cold and there's no sweater warm enough, too few blankets to cover herself with, and her roommates don't subscribe to the idea of leaving the thermostat at a sweltering 78.

That's the advantage, Nesta thinks, of Emerie and Gwyn going home for the holidays.

Admittedly, it's also a bit sad.

78 and her heart is a solid 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The freezing point of water.

She's been holed up in this apartment, even as most students leave back to their respective families. Even Cassian leaves a week ago. Not that Nesta cares to keep track. She just knows because he keeps sending them photos of him making snow angels to their group chat.

Emerie sends photos of herself on a beach in Miami, because of course she lives somewhere warm. Gwyn, however, lives out in the boonies and barely gets cell reception on a good day. She sends a thumbs up just to tell them she's alive.

She tells them she's going home soon, but really Nesta plans on taking extra shifts if they're offered. No sense in trucking home. She missed the last bus there anyway.

So, Nesta makes do with the Christmas tree her friends put up together. Homemade ornaments and all. She makes do with Netflix and shitty rom-coms, and she ignores all semblance of Cassian who keeps calling her and texting her and sending her pictures.

As if she cares.

She won't tell anyone that she saves them in her phone. She won't tell her friends that he has a routine. Check-ins like some godforsaken good morning texts as if they're dating or something. Calls at midnight because he knows she's not sleeping. He asks what she watches since she's always watching something when he calls. Nesta's surprised she even answers.

But she does.

Every time.

She answers every text with a snark reply. Answers every photo with a wicked emoji. Her voice isn't even happy when she talks to him and yet he calls and calls and calls.

She swears there must be something wrong with this guy.

~

Or perhaps there's something wrong with her...

Nesta will blame genetics--her DNA with its single nucleotide polymorphisms. If she gets her hair from her father and her eyes from her mother, it only makes sense that her unreasonable obsession with staring at her phone comes from one of them too.

Nesta cannot stop staring at her phone.

It's been 24 hours and not one notification.

Cassian has been killed.

Or at least... he's been maimed.

Maybe shot.

Worse, he might be talking to another girl.

Nesta shakes her head at the thought. Ugh. What is she even thinking? Vomit worthy thoughts and she'll blame recessive genes and the human genome. What has become of her?

She looks at the screen again, sees nothing, and throws the phone on the bed.

She needs a hobby. One of those boring ones too. Paint by numbers or diamond dots. Something that will take her hours. A form of self-flagellation. A punishment for thinking about frat boys instead of studying for the MCAT.

Because she has to study for the MCAT. The MCAT is not going to take itself.

She contemplates this as her phone vibrates.

Nesta will not admit to anyone that she jumps at the sound and rushes to pick it up.

She groans as she sees who it is.

"What do you want Feyre?"

Her little sister huffs. "That's the Christmas spirit! Say that again but in a drearier way, I think you missed the bah humbug."

"You have five minutes," Nesta says, looking at the clock. It's only 12:15. What else is she suppose to do for 9 more hours?

"Hey! You gave me 15 minutes last time. You're shortchanging me."

"Fine. You get 15 minutes. Talk fast."

Feyre laughs and Nesta pauses at the sound, glad that her little sister sounds happy even if she only calls to ask for money.

"I'm calling to see what you're doing right now."

"Why?"

"Because... Well... I need someone to pick me up from the airport."

Her little sister uses her nice voice as she says it, too.

It’s a shame that Nesta has never been one for niceties.

~~~

Azriel says he’s been playing it too easy and that’s the only reason he’s not snapping Nesta a pic of his pie. Apple crisp with little lace edges.

His exact words were: why would she buy the cow, if she could get the milk for free?

Cassian is no cow, but he knows Nesta loves roast beef. He knows so much about her and yet she barely answers his texts.

So fine, maybe Azriel is right.

Maybe Nesta doesn’t even really like him that much.

Worse, what if she likes someone else?

Cassian shakes his head. No. Impossible. Nesta's his. He's already decided, as possessive as that may seem. How could she not be? She spent Thanksgiving with his family. They've kissed. Twice.

They've made out even.

But still she doesn't reach out to him. She responds with a thumbs up when he asks how she is. She replies with a heart to his message when he tells her he's baking her favorite dessert.

Stupidly short replies for her stupid, dumb... boyfriend? Friend with minimal benefits? Student she tutors?

Cassian shakes his head again.

He needs to get a hobby.

Except he's baking... that is his hobby. He's already cleaned his room. He's watched football with his brothers. He's taken his little sister to the science museum.

Nothing can stop him from gripping his phone and shaking it.

Why won't she call???

Nesta's face lights up his screen and Cassian presses the call button with the speed of a world record.

“Cassian,” she says in a voice so soft, he could swoon.

“I’ll be right there,” he says immediately.

~

Okay next chapter is car ride to Nesta's house with Feyre in tow. Also Nesta doesn't have a car right now. I'll explain that later.

@unhealthyfanobsession

[sharpsuite]

CHISHIYA + FAMILY RESEMBLENCES

When it comes to Chishiya's family resemblances, they certainly exist despite the difficulty to pin them down. Not because the resemblances are hard to see or discover per se - but because Chishiya and his parents are rarely in the same space for them to be observed. He essentially never speaks of them to the point one might assume they're dead until it comes up for some reason and he happens to reveal otherwise.

CHISHIYA & HIS FATHER

Chishiya shares more of his general temperament with his father, a fact he is entirely unaware of given his lack of any communication with the man. APATHY IS NOT ENTIRELY GENETIC, but there ARE genetic components that contribute to a higher risk - specifically in single-nucleotide polymorphisms that affect the body's dopaminergic system. In simple terms for the sake of this post, genetic mutations in the dopamine system (release, binding, or break down) can greatly increase the odds of apathy. His father does possess this gene mutation in regards to an issue breaking down the dopamine release and it is actively displayed. His father is, generally, fairly apathetic to almost all matters. BUT those subject matters that catch his interest and activate the dopamine release and breakdown wholeheartedly catch his interest. His father pursued medicine for this reason, for how much is still to be learned. In the single panel we have of Chishiya's father, there's books piled in towers on the desk, under the desk, beside the desk, AND and entire wall of books behind this. He pours himself into this object of interest - and little else matters. Not the son he had, not the image for society that his mother focuses on. What he pursues is what catches his interest. Even Chishiya points out his father's behavior came from lack of interest. CHISHIYA IS THE SAME TO A MORE INTENSE DEGREE. It was passed down to him alongside the small mutation that Chishiya's mother possessed in the release section of genetic system - hence Chishiya rarely finds something that DOES spark his interest and can easily discard it if need be. While these mutations don't guarantee it - for Chishiya to have both and the environment he was raised in, it was almost bound to happen. This is also why Chishiya can and will persistently pursue what he wants. Even if just mild entertainment. These mutations have in studies shown to cause a higher willingness to take dangerous risks and considering his behavior both around individuals like Niragi as well as high risk plans such as stealing the cards - well. It shows. His father and him share that general apathy and indifference, although Chishiya's is a more extreme version.

On a more observable level, there are the book similarities. We know Chishiya's not interested in the medical field like his parents, his pursuit of medicine was a mix of both a desire to feel something he lacked as well as a bit of expectation. But Chishiya does have a bookshelf full of medical and psychological/sociological textbooks with the odd one or two other books. THEY BOTH PREFER PAPER FOR GENERAL ENJOYMENT, BUT TECHNOLOGY FOR WORK. Textbooks, newspapers, etc. are their preferred for simply reading to learn but monitors for actual work or quick searching. They're both fast readers, both able to easily recount information from consumed text without much effort. He also has a similar physical build to his father, though he's not as tall as his father.

Socially, his father and him both tend to be very isolated. They prefer to be at a distance and observe or slip away versus in the heart of an event or crowd. Lack of interest primarily. They'd rather do their own thing. But they both can have extremely COMMANDING PRESENCES when they choose to or decide they want the control of the room. This is especially obvious in work-related meetings or conferences in their expertise. His father does however tend to keep a small team that he's rather close with for as much as he can get close to people. Chishiya follows in his footsteps in tending to have a very small group compared to his mother who is very involved and engaging with people ( albeit for less genuine reasons. )

CHISHIYA & HIS MOTHER

Although a lot of Chishiya's temperament is similar to his father's, his PERSONALITY is more reflective of his mother. A lot of this has to do with her involvement. Chishiya's mother was not affectionate as I've discussed before, nor what she very involved. But she was far, far more involved in Chishiya's life than his father ever was. She is more or less all he knows for family, albeit Chishiya considers them both strangers that share genetics with him. She's where Chishiya gets a lot of his cunning and manipulation from. At least, she served as a baseline where Chishiya picked it up and it helped form an section of his personality that grew and developed through experiences and life. His mother is a very, very cunning woman. She was the one suggesting the marriage as something of a business arrangement for mutual benefit with his father, she's the one willing to MANIPULATE BEHIND THE SCNES to get her way. She's not outright aggressive, just as Chishiya isn't. But her and Chishiya are both the ones to plant seed in someone's mind and carefully water it, or to guide people unknowingly to doing what they want the person to do. They can both put up an act - to be polite to a patient's face or anyone else, only for the truth to show the moment they're alone. What matters is effeciency. WHATEVER MEANS TO THE GOAL is the motto from his mother that Chishiya heard quite a bit when he was younger overhearing her conversations on the phone or sometimes their own discussions. They're strategists through and through, putting their own goals as their top priority above others - and they're willing to sacrifice to achieve it or to ensure they aren't held back/pinned down.

Some of his expressions are also almost identical to his mother's. One in particular is the CONDESCENDING STARE PAIRED WITH A SMIRK. Standing next to each other, their expressions would be almost perfectly the same, the only change is that Chishiya tends to be relaxed in body posture while his mother is very rigid and dominating. She's also a very sharp woman ; she's had to fight her way in the top in a male-dominated field. Chishiya and her both size people up. It's not overt most of the time, but they do the same steps when observing someone: any identification, eyes, shoulders, hands, overall posture, clothes, and whatever might be relevant to the situation. He's also only slightly taller than her.

Chishiya also takes after his mom in being more sterile with his living space. While his father has books crammed and stacked everywhere, things semi-clean but disorganized, Chishiya's mother tends to be very clean and minimalistic. She isn't one for much pomp, although what is around is of high value whether its paintings, appliances, or the odd decoration she might have. Chishiya, as I've discussed before, tends to be very minimalistic with his own space, having little outside of books or a few smaller items that he has. It even goes into their movements - neither of them tend to move a lot, not their whole bodies or their hands contrary to some who talk a lot with their hands or move around a lot.

[kemetic-dreams]

What is the DNA haplogroup of modern Egyptians?

Haplogroup E1b1b1

Wikipedia (E1b1b): E-M215, also known as E1b1b and formerly E3b, is a major human Y-chromosome DNA haplogroup. It is a division of the macro-haplogroup E-M96, which is defined by the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutation M215. In other words, it is one of the major patrilineages of humanity, linking from father-to-son back to a common male-line ancestor ("Y-chromosomal Adam"). It is a subject of discussion and study in genetics as well as genetic genealogy, archaeology, and historical linguistics.

The E-M215 haplogroup has two ancient branches that contain all the known modern E-M215, E-M35 and E-M281 subclades. Of the latter two, the only branch that has been confirmed in a native population outside of Ethiopia is E-M35. E-M35 in turn has two known branches, haplogroup E-V68 and haplogroup E-Z827, which contain by far the majority of all modern E-M215 carrying men. E-V68 and E-V257 have been found in highest numbers in North Africa and the Horn of Africa, but also in lower numbers in parts of the Middle East and Europe, and in isolated populations of Southern Africa.

The Study authors consider Mtdna L0 thru L4 exclusively African.

Wikipedia quote: Haplogroup L3 descendants notwithstanding, the designation "haplogroup L" is typically used to designate the family of mtDNA clades that are most frequently found in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, all non-African haplogroups coalesce onto either haplogroup M or haplogroup N, and both these macrohaplogroups are simply sub-branches of haplogroup L3. Consequently, L in its broadest definition is really a paragroup containing all of modern humanity, and all human mitochondrial DNA from around the world are subclades of haplogroup L.

repeat - and all human mitochondrial DNA from around the world are subclades of haplogroup L.

Basal J*(xJ1,J2) is found at its highest frequencies among the Soqotri/Socotra (71.4%).

The people of the Island of Soqotri/Socotra are the genetically PUREST of ALL ARABS.

This is what they look like!

[claudz-vision]

Earwax contains a treasure-trove of information about our health—including cancer status. _ Emma Suttie

We all likely take earwax for granted—and prefer not to think about it. However, the under-appreciated substance does more than keep your ears clean and free of debris—scientists have discovered that it contains a goldmine of health data. Beyond that, earwax might be able to signal diseases like diabetes and cancer.

Cerumen is the technical term for earwax. Ceruminous and sebaceous glands secrete a substance in the external auditory canal that mixes with sweat, hair, dust, and other debris. The purpose of cerumen is to keep the ears lubricated and clean and create a barrier to discourage the entry of bugs and other foreign objects that might infiltrate and wreak havoc.

In 2006, a landmark study discovered that earwax varies between people, finding a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that determines what type of earwax a person has—wet or dry. Of note, a SNP (pronounced “snip”) is the most frequent type of genetic variation among people, and each SNP signifies a difference in a single DNA building block (nucleotide).

Subsequent work found that earwax type also varies among different ethnic groups. Dry earwax is prevalent among East Asians, and the wet type is most common among those of European and African descent.

Interestingly, the gene that determines earwax type is also responsible for whether your armpits smell, and those with the dry type generally produce less sweat and body odor—traits found more in East Asian populations.

The Science of Cerumen

In recent years, earwax has gone from a relatively untapped biological resource to the focus of scientific study, particularly diagnostics.

In 2019, scientists developed a new way to detect cancer using earwax, publishing their findings in Nature. The researchers called the new method the Cerumenogram. The study collected earwax from two groups: people with cancer (lymphoma, carcinoma, or leukemia) and those without cancer.

When tested, 27 biological markers could discriminate between cancer patients and healthy controls 100 percent of the time. The new test has the potential to be a quick, non-invasive, inexpensive, and highly accurate test for cancer diagnosis.

In a subsequent study, published in April, the authors expanded on their findings, demonstrating the Cerumenogram’s effectiveness in detecting metabolic changes associated with cancer.

Nelson Roberto Antoniosi Filho, a professor of chemistry at the Federal University of Goiás in Brazil and an author of both studies, explained the findings and their implications for finding cancer early.

In 2019, he and his colleagues demonstrated that earwax could be used to diagnose any cancer at any stage, which they have since verified by studying more than 1,000 samples, he said. Their most recent research showed that the same method can detect pre-cancer stages, diagnose metabolic remission of cancer, and distinguish between benign and malignant tumors.

Filho says he and his colleagues have found that their method detects cancer earlier than traditional tests or expensive imaging, meaning that treatment can start sooner, be less aggressive, and cost less—often before the cancer fully develops—significantly improving the chances of success. For patients in remission, it also clearly shows the moment they are cured, ending years of anxiety and uncertainty, which often last for 5 years or more of follow-up.

Filho says he and his team are currently focusing their studies on metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus, xeroderma pigmentosum, cancer, and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. They are also beginning to focus on autism and depression.

A 2020 study led by Dr. Andrés Herane-Vives, a psychiatrist, scientist, and lecturer at University College London and King’s College London in the UK, collected earwax and measured for cortisol comparing it with standard measurements using hair. Although hair samples are typically used to measure long-term cortisol levels in chronic stress or endocrine dysregulation conditions, the study’s results indicated that using earwax samples may yield more accurate results.

In another 2020 study using earwax, Herane-Vives and his team found that glucose levels reflected in earwax matched levels found in blood, and that earwax glucose reflected short- and long-term blood glucose with 59 percent more accuracy than the HBA1c test, the standard blood test used to measure blood sugar levels as well as monitoring and diagnosing diabetes.

Herane-Vives explained why earwax is unique and offers a more complete picture for tracking certain conditions over time.

“We needed a new specimen to reflect chronic levels of different biomarkers, because so far, the samples that we’ve got—like saliva, urine, or blood—are not able to accumulate substances, and only give us a snapshot,” he told The Epoch Times.

One of the ways earwax was collected in both studies was using a self-sampling device that Herane-Vives has since further developed through his biotech company, Trears Biomarkers. The device allows patients to collect their earwax in the comfort of their homes, which can then be sent through the post to a lab for analysis.

The Earwax Self-Sampling Device developed by Trears Biomarkers. Courtesy of Dr Andrés Herane-Vives

Herane-Vives says the future of cerumen research and Trears, is to improve diagnosis so people get the treatments they need.

“We don’t need new treatments, we need better diagnosis,” he said.

The device could change the game for many patients with chronic diseases like diabetes, allowing them to collect samples at home for regular testing, making it easier, more reliable, and vastly less expensive, in addition to easing an enormous financial burden on the health care system.

The only challenge of using earwax may be that some people lack a sufficient amount, making testing difficult.

“A few people produce little earwax or don’t produce earwax at all. In this regard, we are also finalizing studies to overcome this problem,” Filho said.

The combination of tests like the Cerumenogram and self-sampling devices that allow people to collect their earwax without having to visit a doctor’s office or lab offers an exciting vision of the future of medicine.

Filho said there is no doubt that earwax analysis will become routine in the coming years.

In Brazil, the approach is already being used to diagnose tumor development, including both cancerous stages and pre-cancerous conditions, as well as to assess whether the cancer is in remission, he said.

“This examination has been routinely applied in one of the largest oncology hospitals in the country or Hospital Amaral Carvalho (Jaú-São Paulo), and we are working to ensure that in the next 5 years, all public educational and research institutions in the country offer this examination at the lowest possible cost to the entire population.”

For the rest of the world, he said, the Cerumenogram will become as common as a blood test within the next decade.

“Perhaps in the future, while we listen to music through headphones, those headphones will diagnose our health conditions and tell us what precautions we need to take. I suggest that a samba be played to indicate that health is good!”

[novascommonplaceblr]

DNA can predict your success in school???

Disclaimer! I'm not an expert and am not claiming to be one, so if there's any misinformation here or if I've misunderstood something, please do mention it to me!! Also, if you have the time I would love if you could provide feedback on my writing so that I can improve :) !!

Today I read an article about how DNA can be used to predict success in school, and while the potential benefits are clear, the drawbacks made me question whether it can be truly useful as it brings forth a host of potential issues that I'll touch upon below.

Starting off with the results of the study, the research over the past two decades compared the Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) between people in different stages of education and found that some are linked to education. They then created polygenic scores - scores that showed how many SNPs each person had that were linked to education - and found that some people had higher scores and therefore had a higher tendency to exhibit the mannerisms of a model student eg. finding it easier to concentrate.

Could these scores be helpful? Absolutely - they could lead to more tailored support for those who are genetically predisposed to struggle ever so slightly with their studies, and can be used to create an even playing field for everyone! Furthermore, they can inspire students to try to maximise their genetic potential and see just how far they can go in terms of education - from a high school certificate to PhDs.

However there is a key issue here - these polygenic scores and results from genetic research as a whole are not even close to being as representative of the diverse global population as they should be. Currently around 80% of behavioural genetic research has been focused on those of European ancestry, so any results from these studies may not be applicable at all to other demographics which is worrying as it promotes inequalities while simultaneously undermining the ethical pillar of justice.

Another issue is the results, if told to these students, may severely impact their confidence and motivation to improve. It can be easy to give up on trying your best if you are operating under the idea that your genes are your destiny. This could possibly be mitigated with proper support in educational settings and explanations of the scores along with encouragement, however this is a reactive approach rather than a proactive one.

There is also the possibility that these results can be misused to target those with lower polygenic scores, for example schools could end up putting these students in lower sets and not allowing them to challenge themselves enough in the classroom to reach their full potential, not to mention the possibility of misuse if this information falls into the wrong hands. The number of individuals with access to these scores should perhaps be limited and reviewed constantly, along with the security of the method of access, if it is digital.

Furthermore, what if previously top scorers begin to feel pressured to meet their genetic expectations later down the line when studies become more difficult? If a student is not achieving as highly as their polygenic score indicates that they should be, they might become overwhelmed and adopt unhealthy studying habits to make sure that they reach their full potential, despite the fact that genetics is only one piece of the puzzle - there is so much more that can aid or detriment your ability to study at any one point. This can perhaps be mitigated by putting more support systems in place for students and constant reminders that despite what their genes indicate, they are more than just their genes, and that while they should try to achieve as much as they can, they should prioritise their health and wellbeing at all times.

Overall, if these scores were used on a wider scale, it seems as though it could be really beneficial, especially with the use of it to help even out the playing field in school and widening access to higher education - but using it in a safe manner is crucial, especially in a world where many students are susceptible to tying their self worth to their educational outcomes. Also, to truly maximise any benefits from research, genetic studies should be done on a range of different backgrounds so that everyone can benefit from any developments that arise as a result.

If anyone has read to this point - would you want to see just how far in education your genes indicate that you could get to? :0

Article - Using DNA to Predict Success in School | Psychology Today

[meditating-dog-lover]

Skin - histamine intolerance?

I know I have problems with allergies and based on my bloodwork, my IgE, plasma histamine, and eosinophil counts are normal-high to high.

I am managing my environmental allergies through minimizing exposure, taking allergy shots, and taking anti-histamines when possible.

I don't have many food allergies to begin with.

I just recently did some blood work and I have normal-high histamine (<1.5 ng/mL). Ideal ranges are 0.3-1 ng/mL. So my level is a bit higher than what is idea, but not significantly higher.

I checked my plasma histamine level back in April and had the same result. But my eosinophil count went down (450 cells/uL now and the upper limit is 500 cells/uL so my count is within range but above the median).

I did not retest my IgE which was 199 kU/L, which is high. My doctor says that it's not that high. It's true because I've seen people who have up to 5000 kU/L IgE measurements. But just because my count is not significantly high, doesn't mean I don't have allergy/inflammation symptoms that aren't bothering me. But I'm still happy it's not significantly higher.

I'm doing my part in addressing my environmental allergies now. But there could be more to my allergy profile. Thinking of it as a histamine cup. Histamine intolerance may be an issue.

I've done vitamin D and flax oil. Vitamin D helped me with my immunity and dental health, flax oil helped me with my painful menstrual cramps and my eczema to a certain degree. But I feel like despite this, my skin can be better and there is something that I still need to address in order to heal it. I am reducing stress with CBD oil as stress triggers my skin flares. But I know there is an allergy/histamine issue because allergies makes my skin worse, I even develop hives and sometimes will flare if I touch an allergen (my dogs and mold). And it's also because I haven't see the best improvement after taking supplements like zinc, vitamin D, and flax oil/omega-3 which are key anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Jennifer Fugo (the founder of Skinterrupt who is a nutritionist that specializes in skin health) speaks of a histamine cup - where many little triggers can be added in a cup and when too many are combined, the cup will overflow and cause a lot of issues. In my case this can be it, where it's not just my dog causing my skin issues but that being one component of my histamine cup that just caused it to overflow. Kind of like a straw breaking a camel's back. Same with my wool/alpaca sweater. What caused this overflow? I'm trying to figure this out.

It comes down to a condition called histamine intolerance, which I likely have due to my plasma histamine levels. Some foods out there are high in histamine and some promote histamine release. In other cases there might be a mutation or deficiency in the diamine oxidase (DAO) enzyme, which is a digestive enzyme that breaks down histamine. I have not been tested for this but I would like to. Another cause is mast cell activation syndrome, but I don't believe I have this problem because my mast cell/tryptase levels are normal. Also certain gut bacteria can trigger mast cells to release histamine (could this be MCAS?) and some bacteria themselves will produce histamine such as morganella, klebsiella, and more. I'll be testing for those.

Because my histamine is high but my tryptase is normal, this means that I have some sort of non-mast cell related histamine release. So I could be reacting to a food high in histamine or releases histamine (chart below), have a DAO mutation (would like to test for this and may consider reaching out to my functional medicine doctor, but I heard genetic testing is expensive but I think there could be a genetic factor here). In the case of DAO, there could be a deficiency in enzymatic production and output, or just a complete mutation/single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the genetic sequence coding the enzyme protein, rendering it ineffective. I don't think genetic testing checks for levels/deficiencies however, so I'll likely need another test here.

Estrogen dominance is another thing that can cause histamine intolerance, which I do have. I quit taking my DIM supplement because it's expensive and I'm allergic to ragweed (it has milk thistle in it). I am consuming more broccoli which naturally contains DIM. I'm not quite sure what to do here.

So overall the issue can be: (1) foods that contain or induce the release of histamine, (2) DAO enzyme deficiency or mutation, (3) gut microbiome issues where the microbiome consists of microorganisms that produce histamine, (4) mast cell activation (I don't have this issue because my tryptase levels are normal) and (5) estrogen dominance

Problem is these foods are good lol (health and taste wise).

I'll figure something out here.

[eurofinsgenomics755]

Enhancing Precision in Quantitative PCR: The Power of TaqMan Probes

In the realm of molecular biology, precise and accurate detection of nucleic acids is essential for research, diagnostics, and therapeutic development. Among the various tools available, TaqMan Probes stand out as a gold standard for quantitative PCR (qPCR) applications. In this blog, we'll explore what makes TaqMan Probes so powerful, their applications, and how they are transforming modern molecular techniques.

What are TaqMan Probes?

TaqMan Probes are a type of hydrolysis probe used in real-time PCR (qPCR) to increase the specificity and sensitivity of the assay. They consist of a short oligonucleotide sequence labeled with a fluorescent reporter dye at one end and a quencher dye at the other. When the probe hybridizes to its target DNA sequence, the proximity of the quencher suppresses the fluorescence of the reporter dye. During PCR amplification, the 5' nuclease activity of Taq polymerase cleaves the probe, separating the reporter from the quencher and resulting in an increase in fluorescence. This fluorescence is directly proportional to the amount of target DNA, allowing for precise quantification.

Key Advantages of TaqMan Probes

High Specificity: TaqMan Probes are designed to hybridize to a specific sequence within the target DNA, ensuring high specificity. This minimizes the risk of non-specific amplification and false-positive results, making them ideal for complex samples.

Sensitivity: The fluorescent signal generated by TaqMan Probes is highly sensitive, enabling the detection of low-abundance targets. This is crucial in applications such as pathogen detection, where the target nucleic acids may be present in minute quantities.

Quantitative Accuracy: TaqMan Probes provide precise quantification of target DNA, as the increase in fluorescence is directly proportional to the number of amplified molecules. This makes them indispensable for applications requiring accurate quantification, such as gene expression analysis and copy number variation studies.

Applications of TaqMan Probes

Clinical Diagnostics: TaqMan Probes are widely used in clinical diagnostics for detecting and quantifying viral and bacterial pathogens. Their high specificity and sensitivity ensure accurate diagnosis, which is essential for effective treatment and management of infectious diseases.

Genetic Research: In genetic research, TaqMan Probes facilitate the study of gene expression, genotyping, and SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) analysis. Researchers rely on TaqMan Probes to measure gene expression levels accurately, helping to elucidate the roles of specific genes in health and disease.

Environmental Testing: Environmental scientists use TaqMan Probes to monitor the presence of pollutants and pathogens in water, soil, and air samples. This helps in assessing environmental health and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Agricultural Biotechnology: In agriculture, TaqMan Probes are employed to detect genetically modified organisms (GMOs), monitor crop pathogens, and study plant gene expression. This aids in improving crop yield, disease resistance, and overall agricultural productivity.

Optimizing Your qPCR Experiments with TaqMan Probes

To maximize the effectiveness of TaqMan Probes in your qPCR experiments, consider the following tips:

Design: Ensure that your probes are designed with optimal specificity for the target sequence. Use online tools and databases for probe design.

Concentration: Optimize the concentration of your probes to balance sensitivity and specificity. Too high a concentration can lead to non-specific binding, while too low a concentration can reduce sensitivity.

Controls: Include appropriate positive and negative controls to validate your results and detect any potential contamination or non-specific amplification.

Conclusion

TaqMan Probes have revolutionized the field of quantitative PCR by providing unparalleled specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy. Their versatile applications in diagnostics, research, and environmental monitoring make them indispensable tools for scientists and clinicians alike. By incorporating TaqMan Probes into your qPCR assays, you can achieve precise and reliable quantification of nucleic acids, driving forward your research and diagnostic efforts.

Stay updated with the latest advancements in qPCR technology and TaqMan Probes by subscribing to our newsletter. Enhance your molecular biology toolkit with the precision and reliability of TaqMan Probes today.

[123567-9qaaq9]

Informative Report on Personalized Medicine Biomarker  | BIS Research 

Personalized medicine biomarkers are characteristics that can be objectively measured and evaluated to indicate an individual's predisposition to a particular disease, their likelihood of responding to a specific treatment, or their potential for experiencing adverse reactions to certain medications. 

The global clinical biomarkers market was valued at $24.80 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $53.20 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.93% between 2023 and 2033.

Personalized Medicine Biomarker Overview 

Personalized medicine biomarkers encompass various biological characteristics that can predict disease susceptibility, treatment response, and adverse reactions to medications.

Types of biomarkers include 

genetic markers, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and gene mutations, as well as molecular markers like protein expression levels and metabolite profiles.

Role of Personalized Medicine Biomarker  

Disease Risk Assessment and Prevention 

Early Disease Detection and Diagnosis 

Treatment Selection and Personalization 

Personalized medicine biomarkers are indispensable assets in modern healthcare, empowering clinicians to deliver individualized, evidence-based care that maximizes patient outcomes and improves quality of life. 

Download the report and get to know the interesting facts Click Here ! 

Market Dynamics 

Market Drivers 

Growing Demand for Clinical Biomarker Products

Increase in Industrial Activity in Clinical Biomarker Landscape

Environment Changes Provoking Swift Care and Diagnosis

Market Restraints 

High Price of Products/Services Limiting Adoption of Clinical Biomarkers in Low-Income Countries

Complex Regulatory Frameworks Delaying Approval of New Clinical Biomarkers Tests

Discovering New Biomarkers Presents Difficulty

Market Opportunities 

Technological Advancement in Biomarker Testing

Increased Research Funding for Executing Research and Development Exercise

Discovery of Novel Biomarkers Expanding Precision Medicine Horizons

Grab a look at our sample page click here! 

Market Segmentation

By Product Type 

By Clinical Area 

By Technology 

By End Users 

Click here to visit our Precision medicine page ! 

China has been able to procure its place as one of the leading contributors to the clinical diagnostics market in the past five years. Major growth was significantly attributed to the increasing adoption of clinical biomarkers in oncology or rare disease space.

Uses of Personalized Medicine Biomarker   

Tailored Treatment Selection 

Enhanced Treatment Efficiency 

Early Disease Detection 

Accelerated Drug Development 

Key Players in Transitional  Biomarker Market 

Abbott Laboratories

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

ALCEN

Recent Developments in the Global Clinical Biomarkers Market

•In August 2023, Quest Diagnostics launched the AD-Detect test for Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S., offering consumers the first opportunity to acquire and evaluate a blood-based biomarker test for assessing the potential risks of developing AD

•In September 2023, Becton, Dickinson and Company partnered with Navigate BioPharma Services, Inc. to develop and commercialize flow cytometry-based companion diagnostics and clinical decision tools. The collaboration combined Navigate BioPharma's expertise in biomarker assay design for clinical trials with BD's extensive portfolio of flow cytometry instruments, reagents, software, and in vitro diagnostics (IVD) development services.

Key Question Answers 

QWhat are the major market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global clinical biomarkers market?

Q What are the business development strategies, such as business expansion, acquisitions, and funding, which are implemented by the major players to sustain in the competitive market?

Q Which is the dominant product and service type developed by the leading and emerging players for clinical biomarkers?

QHow is each segment of the market expected to grow during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033?

Conclusion 

In conclusion, personalized medicine, driven by biomarker identification, stands as a transformative approach in healthcare. Through the precise understanding of individual genetic, molecular, and physiological characteristics, tailored treatment strategies can be developed, offering patients more effective therapies with fewer side effects. Biomarkers serve as invaluable tools in this paradigm, enabling clinicians to predict disease risk, diagnose conditions earlier, and monitor treatment responses in real-time.

[denovotech]

What are the different types of IN SITU HYBRIDIZATION PROBES

Denovo technologies , a leading provider of life science products and services in India, offers a wide range of cutting-edge solutions for researchers and scientists. Among their extensive product portfolio, we offers various types of in situ hybridization probes, an essential tool for studying gene expression and localization within cells and tissues. In this article, we will delve into the different types of in situ hybridization probes available under  Denovo technologies under their applications in scientific research.

RNAscope:

Denovo technologies provides RNAscope, a powerful and highly sensitive in situ hybridization technology that enables the detection and visualization of RNA molecules within intact cells and tissues. RNAscope probes are designed to target specific RNA sequences, allowing researchers to identify and study gene expression patterns with single-molecule resolution. This technique has proven invaluable in fields such as cancer research, neuroscience, developmental biology, and infectious disease studies.

BaseScope:

BaseScope is another innovative in situ hybridization assay offered by us. It is specifically designed for the detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and point mutations in RNA transcripts. BaseScope probes enable researchers to identify and analyze genetic variations at the RNA level, providing insights into disease mechanisms, drug response, and personalized medicine.

miRNAscope:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play critical roles in gene regulation. We offers miRNAscope, a specialized in situ hybridization assay designed to detect and visualize miRNA expression patterns within cells and tissues. By studying miRNA localization, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of miRNA function and their involvement in various biological processes, including development, cell differentiation, and disease progression.

Custom In Situ Hybridization Probes:

Denovo technologies understands the unique research requirements of scientists and offers custom in situ hybridization probes tailored to specific gene targets. Researchers can collaborate with our  experts to design and develop custom probes that precisely target the genes of interest. This flexibility allows researchers to explore gene expression patterns and cellular localization in a highly specific and personalized manner.

Applications and Benefits

The availability of diverse in situ hybridization probes from Denovo technologies empowers researchers to investigate gene expression and localization in a wide range of biological samples. These probes enable the identification of specific RNA molecules, SNPs, and miRNAs, providing valuable insights into cellular processes, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. The benefits of using Our in situ hybridization probes include:-

High sensitivity and specificity: The probes are designed with exceptional sensitivity and specificity, ensuring accurate detection and localization of target molecules within the cells and tissues.

Single-molecule resolution: 

The  probes enable the visualization of gene expression at the single-molecule level, allowing researchers to study cellular heterogeneity and rare cell populations.

Versatility: The different types of in situ hybridization probes cater to various research needs, from studying gene expression patterns to identifying genetic variations and miRNA localization.

Customization: Our  custom probe development service offers researchers the flexibility to design probes that precisely target their genes of interest, enhancing the specificity and accuracy of their experiments.

Conclusion

Denovo technologies comprehensive range of in situ hybridization probes, including RNAscope, BaseScope, miRNAscope, and custom probes, provides researchers with powerful tools for investigating gene expression and localization. These probes enable the visualization of RNA molecules, identification of genetic variations, and study of miRNA function, facilitating groundbreaking discoveries in fields such as cancer biology, neuroscience, and personalized medicine. By partnering with Denovo technologies, scientists can access state-of-the-art in situ hybridization technologies and advance their research endeavors with confidence.

[nuadox]

Quick test analyzes DNA to improve crops

- By Roseli Andrion , FAPESP Innovative R&D -

All living beings have cells containing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that carries genetic information for their development and functioning. In agriculture, DNA can be analyzed in search of biological targets to improve processes and to protect crops and animals from attack by microorganisms. This is what Doroth does.

A biotech startup based in Piracicaba, a city in São Paulo state, Doroth is one of the first companies to produce microfluidic chips for quick tests using onboard loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). The lab-on-a-chip technology analyzes DNA to detect mutations, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), transgenes, resistant genes and barcodes (short sequences of base pairs). No laboratories or trained technicians are required, and biological targets for crop treatment are identified directly on-site.

LAMP is a high-performance method used to detect a variety of pathogens, including parasites, fungi, bacteria and viruses. It entails a similar gene amplification technique to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which was widely deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“A PCR test for COVID-19 can now be more than 99% accurate, reaching 99.6% with the right protocol, but it has to be processed in a laboratory. Our solution takes this level of accuracy out into the field to help farmers,” said Rodrigo Gurdos, a biotech engineer who founded Doroth and is currently its new business director. 

The startup has pioneered this type of monitoring in agriculture and is now focusing on detecting biological targets in grains, leaves and the air, although the method can be applied to any kind of biological sample. 

It is supported by FAPESP’s Innovative Research in Small Business Program (PIPE).

Its clients include Suzano, FMC Agrícola, Corteva and Genesis Group. “Corteva wants to detect transgenes in leaves in order to charge royalties. Suzano aims to detect Ralstonia, the bacterium that causes the main eucalyptus seedling disease [bacterial wilt], before the first symptoms appear,” Gurdos said.

FMC Agrícola wants to detect Phakopsora pachyrhizi, a fungus that attacks soybean plants. “This microorganism disperses aerially, and the company wants to detect it before it contaminates crops,” he explained. In particular, the company aims to avoid the onset of Asian soybean rust, the disease that most affects this crop in Brazil and can wipe out an entire plantation without proper management.

The lab-on-a-chip Doroth uses to conduct these tests has all the reagents required to extract DNA from samples and perform a LAMP analysis. “The chip with the sample is inserted into our device, which resembles a capsule espresso machine. You pop in the sample with the chip, and the machine does all the processing automatically without any human intervention,” Gurdos said, adding that the device is built to withstand the harsh conditions typically encountered in the field, including bumpy transportation and high temperatures, among others. 

Combating Asian soybean rust

The research that led to the firm’s foundation started in 2018. “At that time we wanted to find out which was the biggest crop in Brazil and the worst disease faced by farmers. The biggest crop was soybeans, with about 43 million hectares, and the worst disease was Asian soybean rust,” he recalled. Farmers tend to try to ward off the disease by spraying crops with fungicide once a fortnight. The soybean cycle lasts about 110 days from planting to harvest. “Spraying occurs four or five times in this period, representing exorbitant and unnecessary costs. We wondered whether this behavior would change if they knew the disease had arrived.”

It was no easy task to develop the solution based on this insight. The technology was very new. They had explored LAMP in 2018, but it became widely used only in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The advantage of LAMP is that it requires a single temperature. The reaction is produced in the range of 67 °C. PCR requires thermocycling [cyclical temperature changes], which is very hard to perform outside the laboratory. LAMP testing is quick and highly accurate on site,” Gurdos said. A PCR machine costs as much as BRL 100,000 (now about USD 20,400). “Our product costs a fraction of that amount.”

As time passed, the team discovered other applications for the technology. “An example is identification of resistant genes. Weeds are usually combated with herbicide, but farmers often don’t know which is the best herbicide to use. Our system can determine within one hour whether the species that’s attacking a crop has a gene that’s resistant to a given molecule. The farmer can avoid that active ingredient and choose a more effective herbicide,” he explained.

The startup currently has a staff of 16, most of whom have PhDs, an unusually high proportion in this market, as professionals with doctorates and postdoc qualifications are found mostly in universities. “We have this structure thanks to FAPESP’s support via PIPE. It’s an investment that allows us to make mistakes. Faliure is part for the course in science, but run-of-the-mill investors don’t understand that,” Gurdos said.

The firm is observing other markets, such as cattle breeding and the diseases that disturb this activity. “We can identify the best antibiotic to give cattle for treatment and to stop the disease spreading. We’re not only pioneers but also the only firm that can now perform these tests. We’re in the vanguard of this technology, and we’re very proud of being an entirely Brazilian project,” he said.

Scaling up

The firm aims to industrialize the solution and scale up to mass production within the next two years. “We have to learn how to do this because no such industrial facility exists yet,” Gurdos said. Next, it plans to expand into other segments, such as cattle breeding. “It’s interesting because the companies themselves come to us with their difficulties. We aim to have 30 or 40 professionals in the team by the end of 2025.”

And it does not stop there. Doroth’s technology can be used in extreme situations, such as future pandemics. “Our current focus is agriculture, but there’s nothing to prevent our entirely indigenous technology from being used in other areas in an emergency. That isn’t our focus, but the potential is there if needed,” he said.

Doroth perfected the concept developed by Lucira, the first company in the world to use LAMP for quick COVID-19 testing. “Lucira is our benchmark, but it’s a disposable test kit, whereas in our case only the ‘coffee pod’ is disposable,” he said.

The name Doroth is a Brazilian version of Dorothy, the heroine of the Wizard of Oz and the device used in Twister, the 1996 movie, to release hundreds of sensors into the center of a tornado and send data back to weather scientists on the ground. When the startup was founded, it was called 2-seq, but it soon became evident that this was not a good name. “Twister gave us our first notion of how the Internet of Things [IoT] could be used in agriculture. We liked Dorothy so much that we opted for this name, and everyone likes it,” Gurdos said.

This text was originally published by FAPESP Agency according to Creative Commons license CC-BY-NC-ND. Read the original here.

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Header image: The firm is one of the first to produce microfluidic chips for quick tests using onboard loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). Credit: Doroth.

Read Also

Technique using light and artificial intelligence is effective in selecting immature soybean seeds

[genahealthx]

The Science Behind DNA Testing for Health and Diet

In the pursuit of better health and well-being, we often look to science for answers. But what if the answers were hidden within us all along, in our very DNA? This is the fascinating world of DNA testing for health and diet, where the secrets to personalized nutrition and optimal wellness are unlocked through the analysis of our genetic code. Here, we delve into the science behind DNA testing for health and diet, exploring the intricate processes that make it all possible.

Understanding the Human Genome:

At the heart of DNA testing for health and diet lies the human genome. This is the complete set of genes present in our DNA, containing all the information necessary for our body's structure and function. Genes are the instructions that determine everything from our eye color to our susceptibility to certain health conditions.

Genetic Variations and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs):

One of the key principles of DNA testing is the identification of genetic variations known as single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs (pronounced "snips"). SNPs are variations in a single DNA building block (nucleotide) at a specific location in the genome. These variations can influence how our bodies metabolize nutrients, respond to different foods, and even our predisposition to certain health conditions.

Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics:

The fields of nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics are at the forefront of DNA testing for health and diet. Nutrigenomics examines how our genes interact with nutrients and how our diet can impact gene expression. Nutrigenetics, on the other hand, focuses on how our genetic makeup influences our response to different foods and nutrients. Together, these fields provide the foundation for personalized nutrition recommendations based on an individual's unique genetic profile.

The DNA Testing Process:

DNA testing for health and diet involves a straightforward process:

Sample Collection: A sample of DNA is collected, typically through a saliva sample or cheek swab. This sample contains the genetic material needed for analysis.

DNA Extraction: The DNA is extracted from the sample and purified to remove any contaminants.

Genotyping: The DNA is then analyzed to identify specific genetic variations (SNPs) related to health and diet.

Data Interpretation: The data is interpreted in the context of scientific research and databases to provide personalized dietary recommendations and insights into potential health risks or advantages.

Personalized Nutrition Recommendations:

The true power of DNA testing for health and diet lies in its ability to offer personalized nutrition recommendations. By understanding how your genes influence your response to certain nutrients, you can tailor your diet to optimize your health. For example, you might discover that you have a genetic predisposition to low vitamin D absorption, prompting you to increase your intake of this vital nutrient.

Beyond Diet: Health Insights:

DNA testing doesn't just stop at diet recommendations. It can also provide insights into your genetic predisposition to various health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or lactose intolerance. Armed with this knowledge, you can take proactive steps to manage and mitigate these risks.

Ethical Considerations and Data Privacy:

As with any advanced technology, DNA testing for health and diet comes with ethical considerations and concerns about data privacy. It's crucial to choose reputable and secure testing providers and to understand how your genetic data will be used and protected.

The Future of Personalized Wellness:

The science behind DNA testing for health and diet is unlocking a new era of personalized wellness. By deciphering the intricate code written within our genes, we gain a deeper understanding of our bodies and how to nourish them optimally. It's a journey that holds the promise of healthier, more tailored lives, where our genes become our allies in the pursuit of well-being.

For more personalized inquiries or to explore our services further, you can also contact us directly:

Email: contact@genahealthx.com

Visit us: genahealthx.com

Phone: +91 93558 70172

Stay connected and embark on your wellness journey with us!

[thebrokencrescent-blog]

📆 Nov 2020 📰 What’s the Role of Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation in Lupus Development?

EBV is a nearly ubiquitous virus that infects the majority of the world’s population. Following exposure to the virus, it remains in a person’s system, usually dormant except for occasional reactivation of the lytic cycle of viral reproduction. A surrogate for EBV reactivation can be measured by the sero-prevalence of antibodies elicited by the immune system’s response to viral capsid antigen and early antigen.

One of the big questions rheuma­tologists receive from their patients is, “If I have lupus, will other members of my family get it?” says Judith James, MD, PhD, a rheuma­tologist, researcher and vice president of clinical affairs at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City.

A genetic connection exists, and family members of SLE patients are known to be at greater risk than the general population, she says. “But can we identify which of these family members might be more prone to getting lupus? Could we identify them years before they develop lupus and recruit them for primary prevention trials?”

Dr. James is a co-author of a study, published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, exploring whether reactivation of EBV and single nucleotide polymorphisms in EBV are associated with a transition to SLE.1

“Ours is the first study to try to understand the cause/effect relationship between viral reactivation and SLE—to see if EBV reactivation precedes SLE clinical onset or autoantibody development,” she says.

Her study found that baseline viral capsid antigen and early antigen immunoglobulin levels are higher in those SLE patients’ family members who later transitioned to SLE than in those who did not transition and with healthy controls.

The researchers looked at 436 individuals who were relatives of SLE patients but did not themselves have SLE, gathering detailed demographic, environmental and clinical information and blood samples with ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) tests for antibodies against various viral antigens, including viral capsid antigen and early antigen. The participants had been enrolled in the Lupus Family Registry and Repository and the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Gullah Health studies, and gave their consent to be recontacted by researchers. They were approached approximately 6 years after the baseline testing. The aim was to see if they transitioned to SLE over those years. 13% of the relatives, in fact, transitioned to SLE by the time of follow-up contact.

“Our research looked at a specific type of immune response to EBV,” Dr. James says. “The data show that the relatives had increased reactivation of EBV prior to transitioning to SLE and increasing levels of EBV antibodies associated with SLE disease transitioning. If you have antibodies to early antigen, then you’re at highest risk for transitioning to SLE.”

Reactivation of EBV could be used to identify patients who require closer scrutiny for the development of SLE. Rheuma­tologists could ask lupus patients’ family members, especially those who test positive for anti-viral capsid antigen and anti-early antigen, to come back for reevaluations, perhaps annually...