These “scary genes” can impact our health in ways you might not expect.
Today, we’re uncovering three genes that everyone should know about—and what you can do if you carry the negative variants of them.
COMT Gene and…well everything really
One of the most studied genes in genomics – because of its huge effects on almost all of your bodily functions – is the COMT gene.
COMT helps break down many different types of neurotransmitters, like:
- Dopamine – the “happiness hormone” responsible for motivation, learning and memory, increased focus and more
- Norepinephrine – manages the body’s response to stress, important factor of the fight or flight response
- Epinephrine – high levels of epinephrine can cause a weak immune system and heart problems
- Estrogens – plays roles in sexual reproduction, brain health, cancer risk, and more.
So, your COMT activity might be to blame for your mood issues (like anxiety, depression), your cognitive function (brain fog, lack of mental clarity), and even your risk of developing many different types of cancer.
The beauty of SelfDecode is that our AI-backed software analyzes the genes for you, references it to scientific, peer-reviewed studies, and then gives you information on what those results mean for you and your health. No PhD needed!
By looking at my COMT Biohacker Report, I can see that I have typical COMT activity based on my genetic variant.
Folate, Green Tea, and SAM-e are 3 that are high on my personalized list of things to counteract my COMT gene.
This wealth of knowledge is easily available to you – and this is only looking at one gene.
MTHFR & Methylation
MTHFR is a key player in something called the methylation pathway, a complex process your body uses for everything from detoxification to energy production.
But the most critical part? It helps convert folate (aka vitamin B9) into a form your body can actually use.
Without proper MTHFR function, this pathway can’t run smoothly, and that can lead to a buildup of a compound called homocysteine—which is as ominous as it sounds.
High homocysteine levels are linked to a wide range of health problems, including:
- Heart Disease – Elevated homocysteine can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Mental Health Issues – Since MTHFR helps with neurotransmitter production, low activity can contribute to mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
- Cognitive Function – Brain fog, memory problems, and slower processing can all be linked back to MTHFR activity.
That’s why the MTHFR gene can be a “scary gene.” If your variant means reduced MTHFR function, it’s like throwing a wrench into your body’s machinery.
But, much like our other spooky genes, MTHFR doesn’t have to be scary if you know how to handle it.
In fact, I have the negative MTHFR variants.
Knowing your MTHFR variant is like finding a cheat code to support your health, as you’ll know exactly what supplements to take to mitigate the negative impact.
APOE Gene & Longevity
What does it mean for your brain health if you find out that you carry the negative variant of the ApoE gene – one of the most studied genes in the world?
There have been countless studies that link the ApoE gene to Alzheimer’s, specifically the APOE ε4 variants.
Up to 60% of Alzheimer’s patients are ApoE-4 carriers.
ApoE produces a protein called apolipoprotein E, which plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting other proteins responsible for keeping the brain clean by removing waste and harmful substances.
If you carry the ε4 alleles, your body is not as efficient in producing functioning apolipoprotein E, so you’ll have the highest risk of developing Alzheimers.
Which makes the APOE gene a “scary gene”
But just like the ghost “Boo” from Super Mario – who covers his face and stops moving if you turn around and look at him – this gene doesn’t have to be scary if you know which variant you carry.
If you carry the APOE ε4 variants, you can take proactive measures to counteract the negative effects and live a perfectly healthy and long life.
It Doesn’t Have To Be Scary
Understanding your genetic blueprint isn’t about fearing what’s lurking in your DNA; it’s about shining a light on those hidden traits and using that knowledge to your advantage.
These “scary genes” might seem intimidating at first—but with the right insights and tools, you can face them head-on and even turn them into strengths.
With SelfDecode, you’ll gain personalized health insights and actionable steps tailored to your unique genetic makeup.
Take control of your health journey today and transform what was once mysterious into the empowering knowledge you need for a long, healthy life.
