What is a Gene and what is DNA

Our genes located in the cell nucleus and contain the construction plan of life. Although everybody has basically the same information within his genes, every person is unique. Small differences in our genetic information guarantee our individuality.

These individual genetic variants (called polymorphisms) can make us more susceptible to some diseases but also more resistant to others. Polymorphisms are variants in the coding in the base pairs.

Here is an excellent diagrammatic explanation of the gene from the Welcome trust.

 

Genes are the natural construction plan for building human life.

Nearly the total human DNA is identical from human to human. Yet the small amount that is different is very important. A gene sequence that varies from the usual pattern (a so-called polymorphism) can alter the normal shape and function of proteins, and therefore have both a negative as well as a positive influence on your body. This can change the way the body functions. 

It can also make us more susceptible to some diseases and more resistant to others.

DNA, the molecule of life

The human body consists of trillions of cells

Each cell contains:

  • 46 human chromosomes
  • 2 meters of DNA
  • 3 billion DNA subunits (bases ; A, C, G, T)

Approximately 25 000 genes code for up to 100 000 proteins, that perform most life functions!

We do not inherit a disease state per se. Rather; we inherit a set of susceptibility factors to environmental influences that modify the risk of developing a disease. These factors can be things like cigarette smoke or air pollution, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, sun exposure, bacterial infection, chronic nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, lifestyle habits, or toxic exposure. In other words, the vast majority of genetic polymorphisms only have the potential to cause health problems, if exposed to the wrong mix of harmful agents over time.

Preventive Genetic Diagnostics from GeneticHealth helps to explain why individuals are affected differently by the same environmental factors. And most important it enables the physician to select suitable measures for his patient tailored to his individual genetic needs.