SNP Genes and Autism (Part-1) with Dr. Kendra Becker-Musante
Let’s talk about some genetic SNP’s that are associated and supported in recovering autism. Single nucleotide polymorphisms, often referred to as SNPs (pronounced “snips”) are basic genetic variations in people. Respectively, in a DNA sequence. There are thousands of genes associated with AUTISM and all of them have been randomized out in clinical trials which tells us that autism is largely environmental! However, even though our genes do not define us, they can guide our way toward healing. Genetic susceptibilities come from trauma, both physical, emotional, and from toxic insult. Less than five percent of humans have genetic defects at birth. Some favorite SNP’s that can be associated and supported in recovering autism: MTHFR It is estimated that 98% of people with autism have the MTHFR gene snip. MTHFR or methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (methyl-ene-tetra-hydro-folate-reductase), when working properly, produces the MTHFR enzyme, MTHFR (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase). However, if the gene is mutated it will not be able to make important compounds such as protein, and it disrupts the methylation cycle, otherwise known as detoxification. MTHFR gene mutation also disrupts the body’s ability to make the master antioxidant, glutathione. When the body cannot detoxify properly the toxins build up in the body and cause a myriad of health problems. MTHFR is also responsible for creating the process of converting the amino acid homocysteine to methionine. Methionine is the amino acid our body uses to make proteins. With the MTHFR mutation metabolic issues are common, and so is the deficiency of folate, vitamin Methyl B12 , (vital for proper function of many things including methylation, digestion and food absorption), and pyridoxine (vitamin B6, for brain function and coping with stress), or mutations of related enzymes. Folate is natural and comes from food sources such as green vegetables, beans and other whole plant foods. It is responsible for synthesizing DNA, making red blood cells, transporting oxygen, and supports the functioning of our nervous and cardiovascular systems. Adequate B vitamins, including folate are also necessary for proper cognitive function. Folic acid is synthetic and commonly in multivitamins and fortified foods. This can cause excess to build in the body. The body has a limited ability to convert folic acid to folate. Too much folic acid can affect gene expression, may reduce immune system function, and exacerbate vitamin B12 deficiency. It is critical to make sure to check your multivitamin, because most will contain folic acid and not folate. With the MTHFR mutation it is important to reduce inflammatory foods from the diet such as gluten, dairy, processed carbohydrates and sugars. detoxification and the use of toxin binders can be very helpful. Common health issues related to a disruption in the MTHFR gene are: Food allergies Inflammation Alzheimer’s Cardiovascular problems ADD/ADHD thyroid issues Chronic fatigue Eczema Infertility Drug sensitivities Tactile sensitivity A couple of physical signs to look for that refer to MTHFR are: A sacral dimple. This would be on the top and center of the gluteal fold. A blue line in between the eyebrows. Tongue tie COMT COMT stands for Catechol-O-methyltransferase and is an enzyme that breaks down hormones secreted by the adrenal glands to help us stay calm and handle stress. They are in a category of chemicals called catecholamines which are also neurotransmitters, or brain messengers, such as dopamine (our feel good chemical), epinephrine (also known as adrenaline), and norepinephrine (a stress hormone and a neurotransmitter). COMT deactivates these neurotransmitters in a process that uses S-adenosyl methionine, or SAMe. SAMe assists with many things including motivation. SAMe is part of the methionine cycle which needs the help of the MTHFR enzyme to complete these chemical processes. Therefore, MTHFR and COMT are both neede