Genes of Interest: COMT, DTNBP1, CHRNA4, BDNF, ADD1, MTHFR
Stress is a common factor that can impact our heart health in various ways. It can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and lead to the release of stress hormones like cortisol. These hormones can have negative effects on our heart over a long period of time. Our genes play a crucial role in how we respond to stress and how it affects our heart health.
The COMT gene helps regulate the levels of neurotransmitters in our brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in stress response. Variants of the COMT gene can affect the efficiency of neurotransmitter regulation and, in turn, our stress response.
The DTNBP1 gene is involved in the regulation of stress hormones, and variants of the gene have been linked to an increased risk of stress-related disorders like depression and anxiety.
The CHRNA4 gene helps regulate the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in stress response. Variants of the CHRNA4 gene can affect the efficiency of acetylcholine regulation and, in turn, our stress response.
The BDNF gene is involved in the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which is crucial for the growth and survival of brain cells. Low levels of BDNF have been linked to depression and anxiety, which are often triggered by stress.
The ADD1 gene is involved in the regulation of the adrenergic receptors, which are responsible for the physiological responses to stress, including increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Finally, the MTHFR gene is involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, a molecule that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Variants of the MTHFR gene can affect the metabolism of homocysteine and, in turn, our heart health.