Longevity, fertility, and antagonistic pleiotropy
Hi there,
Pleiotropy is an interesting concept and one of those fancy terms that academics love to use. In essence, it means that one gene can influence multiple traits. For example, the MC1R 'red hair' gene also influences skin cancer risk.
Antagonistic pleiotropy is the idea that a gene can have positive or negative effects in the younger years versus aging.
Take iron regulation as a prime example. A mutation in the HFE gene increases iron absorption and this gave a survival benefit in the past when young women needed extra iron during childbirth or when younger men had battle wounds. However, high iron levels as we age can lead to oxidative stress, organ damage, and an earlier death. Check your data to see if you have the HFE mutations linked to high iron.
The concept of antagonistic pleiotropy also applies to reproduction and fertility. Estrogen is essential for women and reproduction, but it can also increase cancer growth. Even common variants, such as MTHFR C677T, have their own tradeoffs. Folate is essential for reproduction and growth, which makes the MTHFR variant a negative when it comes to fertility. However, people with reduced MTHFR function may benefit in the long run from a decreased risk of colon cancer.
My point here is that “bad genes” usually have a hidden benefit, a tradeoff. By understanding how and why genetic variants impact cellular function, you can better optimize and manage your health depending on your age and stage of life.
As always, if you don’t find this newsletter valuable, you can unsubscribe at the bottom of this email. If you do find Genetic Lifehacks valuable, please tell your friends and family about it. It's the best way you can support me.
Gratefully yours,
~ Debbie Moon
Here's an email that I received from a member this week (shared with permission!):
I just want to thank you for the amazing work made on this website! It's helped me to find a lot of prevention ideas for many mutations I have to prevent diseases in the early stages. Just 1 example, I'm 34, never had an iron test made by my doctor, after seeing my mutations here, I requested a test. Results: High ferritin, low testosterone, both iron-related issues caught in an early stage. This website will extend my lifespan, so thank you!!!
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