Рубрика: Analyzes

  • Detoxification Genetic Polymorphism Test

    Detoxification Genetic Polymorphism Test

    This test analyzes the genes responsible for the work of detoxification enzymes (phase I and II), which neutralize toxins, drugs, carcinogens and metabolic products. It helps to identify congenital disorders that increase the risk of chronic diseases, intoxication, and drug intolerance.

    What genes are being tested?

    1. Phase I (Cytochrome P450):
    • CYP1A1, CYP1B1 – metabolism of carcinogens (for example, benzopyrene from tobacco smoke).
    • CYP2D6 -neutralization of 25% of drugs (antidepressants, beta-blockers).
    • CYP2C9, CYP2C19 -metabolism of warfarin, NSAIDs, and antidepressants.
    1. Phase II (conjugation):
    • GSTM1, GSTT1 – deactivation of toxins and free radicals (if fission occurs, there is a risk of cancer).
    • COMT – destruction of catecholamines (epinephrine, dopamine).
    • NAT2 -neutralization of aromatic amines (in case of coffee and tea intolerance).

    Why do I need this test?

    1. Risk assessment:
    • Oncology (with weak detoxification of carcinogens).
    • Chronic intoxication (heavy metals, pesticides).
    • Drug intolerance (for example, slow metabolism of CYP2D6 → codeine poisoning).
    • Hormonal disorders (COMT affects estrogens and dopamine).
    1. Personalized recommendations:
    • Selection of safe medications and doses.
    • Diet correction (for example, for NAT2 polymorphisms, smoked products are excluded).
    • Appointment of antioxidants (for GST defects).

    Symptoms of detoxification disorders

    With weak enzyme activity (accumulation of toxins):

    • Chronic fatigue, headaches.
    • Allergies, skin rashes (eczema, acne).
    • Intolerance to alcohol, coffee, and medications.
    • Increased risk of cancer (especially lung, breast, and bladder).
    • Hormonal failures (PMS, endometriosis — with slow COMT).

    With hyperactivity of enzymes (rapid breakdown of useful substances):

    • Low effectiveness of painkillers or antidepressants.
    • Vitamin D deficiency (due to accelerated CYP2R1 metabolism).
    • Lack of dopamine (with rapid COMT — > anxiety, ADHD).

    Norms in analysis

    A genetic test has no ‘norms’ in the traditional sense. The result shows the type of polymorphism:

    • Fast metabolism (high enzyme activity).
    • Slow metabolism (risk of accumulation of toxins).
    • Normal type (optimal function).

    Sample result:


    What should I do when detecting polymorphisms?

    1. Avoid toxins:
    • Abstaining from smoking and alcohol.
    • Restriction of smoked products (at NAT2).
    • Use of eco-friendly cosmetics.
    1. Detoxification Support:
    • Glutathione (for GST defects).
    • Magnesium, B12, folate (for the work of cytochromes).
    • Indole-3-carbinol (for slow COMT and high estrogens).
    1. Personal selection of medicines:
    • For’ slow metabolizers ‘ – lower doses.
    • For’ fast ‘ – alternative drugs.

    Examples of the impact of polymorphisms

    The genePolymorphismEffectsRecommendations
    CYP2C192/2Ineffectiveness of clopidogrelReplacement with ticagrelor
    COMTVal158MetAnxiety, low dopamineSAM-e, magnesium
    GSTM1DeletionLung cancer riskCurcumin, selenium

    Conclusion

    • The detoxification polymorphism test identifies individual risks of diseases and drug reactions.
    • Symptoms of violations: chronic intoxication, drug intolerance, hormonal disorders.
    • ‘Norms’ is the definition of the type of metabolism (fast/slow).
    • Correction: diet, antioxidants, personalized pharmacotherapy.

    The test is especially useful when:

    • Unexplained chronic symptoms.
    • Family history of oncology.
    • Frequent side effects from medications.
  • Feces for elastase-1

    Feces for elastase-1

    Stool analysis for elastase-1

    Why is it needed?

    Elastase-1 is an enzyme of the pancreasthat is involved in the digestion of proteins. Its level in the stool reflects the exocrine function of the pancreas (the ability to produce digestive enzymes).

    The analysis is prescribed for the diagnosis of:
    Chronic pancreatitis (decreased production of enzymes).
    Cystic fibrosis (a genetic disorder involving the pancreas).
    Malabsorption syndrome (malabsorption of nutrients).
    Bowel diseases (celiac disease, Crohn’s disease).


    Symptoms of Elastase-1 deficiency

    If there is a lack of the enzyme, the pancreas can not cope with the digestion of food, which leads to:

    • Greasy, fetid stools (steatorrhea).
    • Bloating, gas.
    • Weight loss (despite a normal diet).
    • Lack of vitamins A, D, E, and K (due to poor fat absorption).
    • Chronic diarrhea.

    Causes of low Elastase-1:

    • Chronic pancreatitis.
    • Cystic fibrosis.
    • Age-related decline in pancreatic function.
    • Pancreatic surgery.

    Can there be an excess of elastase-1?

    No, elevated elastase-1 levels are not clinically relevant.

    • If the result is higher than normal, this does not indicate a disease.
    • Sometimes this happens with diarrhea of non-pancreatic origin (for example, with infections).

    Norm of elastase-1 in feces

    Level (mcg/g of feces)Interpretation
    >500Norm (optimal level)
    200–500Mild / moderate insufficiency
    <100Severe pancreatic insufficiency

    Important:

    • The test is given without preparation (it does not require a diet or medication withdrawal).
    • Feces are collected in a sterile container (1-2 g is enough).
    • Do not freeze the sample!

    What to do with low elastase-1?

    1. Enzyme replacement therapy (Creon, Pancreatin).
    2. A low-fat diet (to reduce the burden on the pancreas).
    3. Vitamin control (taking fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K).
    4. Additional surveys:
    • Ultrasound/MRI of the pancreas.
    • Test for cystic fibrosis (if the cause is unknown).

    When is the test scheduled?

    • Chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea.
    • Unexplained weight loss.
    • Suspected pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.

    Conclusion

    Fecal elastase-1 is a reliable marker of pancreatic function.
    , The norm: > 500 mcg/g
    . Дефицит Deficiency (<200 mcg/g) indicates pancreatic insufficiency.
    Treatment: Enzymes + diet + vitamin control.

  • Calprotectin

    Calprotectin

    Analysis of feces for calprotectin

    Why is it needed?

    Calprotectin is a proteinthat is released by white blood cells (neutrophils) during inflammation in the intestines. Its level in the stool helps distinguish functional disorders (such as IBS) from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD):
    Crohn‘s disease.
    Ulcerative colitis.
    Intestinal infections.
    Diverticulitis, intestinal tumors.


    What does calprotectin do in the body?

    • Inflammatory marker: increases when immune cells in the intestinal mucosa are activated.
    • Protective function: binds zinc and calcium, limiting bacterial growth.
    • It does not depend on diet or medication (except for NSAIDs, which may increase its level).

    Symptoms with increased calprotectin

    An excess indicates active inflammation in the intestines:

    • Chronic diarrhea or constipation.
    • Abdominal pain, cramps.
    • Blood or mucus in the stool.
    • Weight loss, weakness.

    Reasons for the increase:

    • IBD (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis).
    • Intestinal infections (salmonellosis, campylobacteriosis).
    • Celiac disease in the active phase.
    • Taking NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin).

    Is there a calprotectin deficiency?

    No, a low level is the norm.

    • If calprotectin is normal, but there are symptoms – probably a functional disorder (IBS).

    Calprotectin norms in feces

    Level (mcg/g)Interpretation
    <50Normal (no inflammation)
    50–120Moderate elevation (requires monitoring)
    >120High inflammation (suspected IBD)

    Notes:

    • In children under 4 years of age, the norm is higher (up to 150 mcg/g).
    • At the level of 50-120 mcg/g , the analysis is repeated after 1-2 months.

    What to do with increased calprotectin?

    1. Consultation with a gastroenterologist.
    2. Additional surveys:
    • Colonoscopy with biopsy.
    • Analysis for infections (fecal culture, PCR).
    1. Treatment of the underlying disease:
    • In IBD – anti-inflammatory drugs (mesalazine, biological therapy).
    • In case of infection – antibiotics.

    When is the test scheduled?

    • Suspected IBD (with chronic diarrhea, pain).
    • Monitoring treatment for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
    • Differential diagnosis of IBS and IBD.

    Conclusion

    Calprotectin is a reliable marker of intestinal inflammation.
    , The norm: < 50 mcg / g** (for children under 4 years – up to * * 150 mcg/g**). **The increase (>120 mcg/g) requires an in-depth examination.
    A low level rules out serious inflammation (most likely IBS).

    Example: If the result is 200 mcg / g, a colonoscopy is needed to check for Crohn’s disease.

  • Epigenetic age (DNA methylation test)

    Epigenetic age (DNA methylation test)

    Epigenetic age (DNA methylation test): why is it needed?

    Epigenetic age is the biological age of cells, determined by the patterns of DNA methylation (chemical labels on genes that regulate their activity). Unlike chronological age, it reflects the actual rate of aging of the body and the risks of age-related diseases.

    How does DNA methylation work?

    • With age, some genes are ‘turned off ‘(hypermethylation), while others are ‘turned on’ (hypomethylation).
    • These changes affect:
    • Inflammation (IL-6, TNF-α).
    • DNA repair (p16, p53).
    • Mitochondrial function (PPARGC1A).
    • Accelerated methylation = rapid aging.

    Why do I need this test?

    1. Estimation of the aging rate:
    • If the epigenetic age is higher than the chronological age– the risk of diabetes, cancer, or dementia is increased.
    • If lower , it indicates a ‘young’ biological age.
    1. Personalized prevention:
    • Lifestyle correction (diet, sports, sleep).
    • Reception of methyl donors (folate, B12) with impaired methylation.
    1. Prognosis of therapy effectiveness:
    • For example, people with ‘young’ epivozrastom better take root transplants.

    Symptoms of accelerated epigenetic aging

    There are no direct symptoms, but indirect signs:

    • Early wrinkles, gray hair.
    • Chronic fatigue, cognitive decline.
    • Common inflammatory diseases (arthritis, atherosclerosis).
    • Insulin resistance (prediabetes).

    Risk factors for accelerated aging:

    • Smoking, alcohol.
    • Obesity, stress.
    • Vitamin B9/B12 deficiency.

    Symptoms of ‘delayed’ aging

    • High physical and mental activity in the elderly.
    • No chronic diseases (for example, normal blood pressure at age 70).
    • Fast recovery after loads.

    Norms in analysis

    Epigenetic age is measured in years and compared with chronological age:

    • Optimal: biological age < chronological age.
    • Accelerated aging: +3-5 years or more.
    • Delayed aging: -3-5 years or more.

    Sample result:


    Different ‘ clocks ‘(Horvath, Hannum, PhenoAge) evaluate different aspects of aging.


    What to do with accelerated aging?

    1. Diet correction:
    • Methyl donors: leafy greens, liver, and eggs (sources of folate and B12).
    • Antioxidants: berries, curcumin, omega-3.
    • Limit sugar and trans fats.
    1. Lifestyle:
    • Intermittent fasting (activates autophagy).
    • Physical activity (strength + cardio).
    • Sleep 7-9 hours (DNA repair).
    1. Supplements (as directed by your doctor):
    • NMN/NR (precursors of NAD+).
    • Resveratrol (sirtuin activator).
    • Methylfolate (with impaired methylation).

    Where is the test used?

    • Anti-age medicine -selection of anti-aging programs.
    • Oncology -assessment of the aggressiveness of tumors (for example, gliomas).
    • Longevity research – study of the effects of cryonics, fasting.

    Conclusion

    • Epigenetic age is an accurate marker of biological aging based on DNA methylation.
    • The norm: matching or lagging behind the chronological age.
    • Accelerated aging is corrected by diet, exercise, and methyl donors.
    • The test is useful for early prevention of age-related diseases and a personalized approach to health.
  • Antibodies to tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG)

    Antibodies to tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG)

    Why is it needed?

    This test is used to diagnose celiac disease– an autoimmune disease in which eating gluten (wheat, rye, and barley protein) causes damage to the lining of the small intestine.

    Main objectives of the analysis:
    ✔ Confirmation of the diagnosis of celiacdisease.
    ✔ Monitoring compliance with a gluten-free diet.
    ✔ Screening for people with a family history of celiacdisease.


    What is Tissue transglutaminase (tTG)?

    • An enzymeinvolved in tissue repair.
    • In celiac disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks tTG, mistaking it for a threat (due to a reaction with gluten).
    • In response , antibodies (IgA and IgG)are produced, which are detected in the analysis.

    Symptoms of a positive test (celiac disease)

    Classic symptoms (in children and adults):

    • Chronic diarrhea or constipation.
    • Bloating, abdominal pain.
    • Weight loss (despite a normal diet).
    • Steatorrhea (greasy, fetid stools).

    Extra-intestinal manifestations:

    • Anemia (due to iron and folic acid deficiency).
    • Osteoporosis (calcium malabsorption).
    • Rash (dermatitis herpetiformis).
    • Infertility, neurological disorders.

    Is there a shortage or excess of tTG?

    • Transglutaminase deficiency -does not occur, as it is an important enzyme of the body.
    • Excess tTG – has no clinical significance, only the presence of antibodies to itis important.

    TTG Antibody standards

    The test is performed in the blood (more often IgA antibodies are determined, less often IgG).

    Type of antibodyNorm (U / ml)Interpretation
    IgA anti-tTG< 15Negative (normal)
    15–30Weakly positive (repeated test)
    > 30Positive (celiac disease is likely)
    IgG anti-tTG (for IgA deficiency)< 15Standard
    > 15Suspected celiac disease

    Important:

    • 5-10% of people with celiac disease may be deficient in IgA, so IgG is additionally tested.
    • Gluten should not be excluded before the analysis – this may give a false negative result.

    What should I do if I get a positive result?

    1. Consultation with a gastroenterologist.
    2. Endoscopy with biopsy (gold standard of diagnostics).
    3. Complete elimination of gluten (wheat, rye, barley).
    4. Control of antibody levels after 6-12 months (to assess the effectiveness of the diet).

    When is the test scheduled?

    • For symptoms of malabsorption (diarrhea, weight loss).
    • If relatives have celiac disease.
    • For autoimmune diseases (type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroiditis).
    • For unexplained anemia or osteoporosis.

    Conclusion

    TTG antibodies are a key marker of celiac disease.
    , The norm: < 15 U / ml (IgA).
    A positive result (>30 U/ml) requires a bowel biopsy.
    , Treatment: a strict gluten-free diet for life.

  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

    Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

    Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) — it is a vitamin-like substance that plays a key role in the production of energy (ATP) in the mitochondria and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

    Main functions:

    1. Energy metabolism -participates in the respiratory chain of mitochondria, helping to synthesize ATP (especially important for the heart, brain, and muscles).
    2. Antioxidant protection -neutralizes free radicals, prevents cell damage.
    3. Heart support -improves myocardial contractility, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.
    4. Slowing down aging – CoQ10 levels decrease with age.
    5. Immune system -increases the activity of phagocytes.

    Symptoms of CoQ10 deficiency

    A deficit occurs when:

    • Over the age of 40 (natural decrease in synthesis).
    • Taking statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs block CoQ10 synthesis).
    • Chronic diseases (heart failure, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease).

    Signs of a shortage:
    Chronic fatigue, weakness.
    Muscle achesand cramps (especially when taking statins).
    Shortnessof breath, arrhythmia (due to decreased energy in the heart muscle).
    Memory loss, cognitive impairment.
    High blood pressure.


    Symptoms of excess CoQ10

    Overdose is extremely rare, as CoQ10 is non-toxic. Possible effects when taking large doses (>300 mg / day):

    • Nausea, diarrhea.
    • Headache, insomnia.
    • Decreased appetite.

    Note: A natural excess is not possible – the excess is excreted in the bile.


    CoQ10 standards in analyses

    CoQ10 levels are measured in blood plasma or lymphocytes (a more accurate method).

    ParameterStandardOptimal level
    Blood plasma0.5-1.5 mcg / ml>1.0 mcg / ml
    Lymphocytes30-150 nmol / mg of protein>50 nmol / mg

    When is the test scheduled?

    • With muscle weakness while taking statins.
    • For heart failure, migraines.
    • To assess the antioxidant status.

    How to increase CoQ10?

    1. Food:
    • Fatty fish (herring, sardines).
    • Beef, chicken heart.
    • Nuts, seeds, spinach.
    1. Supplements (as directed by your doctor):
    • Ubiquinone (the usual form) – 100-200 mg / day.
    • Ubiquinol (reduced form– — better absorbed, especially after 40 years.
    1. Reducing risk factors:
    • Quitting smoking (accelerates oxidative stress).
    • Blood sugar control (diabetes lowers CoQ10).

    Conclusion

    CoQ10 is a vital component for energy and antioxidant protection.
    Deficiency is manifested by fatigue, muscle weakness, and heart problems.
    , Blood norm: 0.5-1.5 mcg / ml (plasma), > 50 nmol / mg (lymphocytes).
    Supplements are effective for proven deficiencies or statin use.

    Example: If the CoQ10 level is < 0.5 mcg / ml, it is recommended to take 100-200 mg/day in the form of ubiquinol.

  • Organic acids in urine (OAT test)

    Organic acids in urine (OAT test)

    Why is it needed?

    The OAT test (Organic Acids Test) is a comprehensive analysis that evaluates metabolites (metabolic products) in the urine. These substances reflect the work of:
    Mitochondria (energy exchange).
    Intestinal microbiota.
    Detoxification systems.
    Neurotransmitter balance.

    The test helps to identify:

    • Mitochondrial dysfunction.
    • Lack of vitamins (B12, B6, biotin).
    • Fungal / bacterial infections (candida, Clostridium).
    • Metabolic disorders (for example, lactate acidosis).

    What does the OAT test measure?

    The analysis includes 70 + markersgrouped together:

    1. Energy exchange (Krebs cycle):
    • Lactate, pyruvate – signs of hypoxia or mitochondrial dysfunction.
    • Citrate, alpha-ketoglutarate – indicators of the effectiveness of the Krebs cycle.
    1. Microbial metabolites:
    • D-lactate, hydroxymethylglutarate (candida, clostridium).
    • Phenylpropionate, benzoate (excess of pathogenic bacteria).
    1. Detoxification:
    • Sulfates, glutathione-markers of liver load.
    1. Neurotransmitters:
    • Vanillylmandelate – VMA) is a metabolite of epinephrine/norepinephrine.
    • Homovanilic acid (HVA) is a breakdown product of dopamine.
    1. Oxidative stress:
    • 8-OH-deoxyguanosine is a marker of DNA damage.

    Symptoms of abnormalities

    If there is an excess of markers

    • Lactate / pyruvate – chronic fatigue, muscle pain (mitochondrial dysfunction).
    • D-lactate – — ‘fog in the head’, confusion (candidiasis, SIBR).
    • Quinolinate – anxiety, depression (inflammation in the brain).
    • Methylmalonic acid ↑ is a B12 deficiency.

    If there is a shortage of markers

    • Low alpha-ketoglutarate – lack of energy, anemia.
    • Reduced sulfates – poor detoxification (allergies, chemical sensitivity).

    Standards in the OAT test

    Specific references depend on the laboratory, but the approximate ranges are:

    MarkerReference values
    Lactate<2.0 mg / g creatinine
    Pyruvate0.5-1.5 mg / g
    D-Lactate<0.2 mg / g
    Methylmalonic Acid<3.0 mmol / g
    8-ONE-deoxyguanosine<5.0 ng / mg

    Note:

    • The results are normalized to creatinine (to take into account the concentration of urine).
    • References may differ for children and adults.

    What should I do if there are deviations?

    1. Vitamin deficiency:
    • With high methylmalonate – B12 (methylcobalamin).
    • At high quinolinate – B6 (P-5-P).
    1. Intestinal dysbiosis:
    • Probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium).
    • Antimicrobial agents (berberine, caprylic acid).
    1. Mitochondrial support:
    • CoQ10, L-carnitine, magnesium.
    1. Detoxification:
    • Glutathione, N-acetylcysteine (NAC).

    When is the OAT test scheduled?

    • Chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia.
    • Neurological disorders (autism, ADHD).
    • Food intolerances and allergies.
    • Suspected candidiasis or SIBR.

    How do I take the test?

    • Morning urine (the first portion after sleep).
    • Exclude within 48 hours :
    • Alcohol, caffeine.
    • Vitamin supplements (especially B2, B12).

    Conclusion

    The OAT test is a window into your metabolism that shows an imbalance of energy, microbiota, and detoxification.
    Нормы Norms are individual, but key markers are:

    • Lactate <2.0 mg / g,
    • Methylmalonic acid <3.0 mmol / g
      . Коррек Correction depends on the detected disorders (vitamins, probiotics, antioxidants).
  • IL-6 (interleukin-6)

    IL-6 (interleukin-6)

    The role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the body

    IL-6 is a multifunctional cytokinethat plays a key role in:
    Immune response (activates inflammation in infections).
    Hematopoiesis (stimulates the production of platelets and white blood cells).
    Metabolism (affects insulin resistance, lipolysis).
    Tissue regeneration (wound healing, muscle recovery).
    Neuroprotection and neuroinflammation (associated with depression, Alzheimer’s disease).


    Symptoms and consequences of IL-6 imbalance

    In excess (hyperimmune response)

    • Acute inflammation:
    • Fever, joint pain (for COVID-19, rheumatoid arthritis).
    • Cytokine storm (a dangerous condition in severe infections).
    • Chronic diseases:
    • Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus).
    • Atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes (IL-6 increases insulin resistance).
    • Depression, dementia (due to neuroinflammation).

    When deficient (rare)

    • Susceptibility to infections (reduced immune response).
    • Anemia (violation of the production of red blood cells).
    • Delayed wound healing.

    Note: Complete absence of IL-6 is extremely rare (genetic mutations).


    IL-6 standards in assays

    The level of IL-6 is measured in the blood serum (less often-in the cerebrospinal fluid).

    ConditionIL-6 level (pg / ml)
    Healthy people< 7
    Mild inflammation7–20
    Acute inflammation20–100
    Severe infections/cytokine storm> 100 (can reach 1000+)

    When is the test scheduled?

    • Suspected sepsis, COVID-19.
    • Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis).
    • Assessment of the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
    • Diagnosis of depression (at a high level).

    What should I do if there are deviations?

    With high IL-6

    1. Anti-inflammatory therapy:
    • IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab — for rheumatoid arthritis, cytokine storm).
    • Corticosteroids (dexamethasone).
    1. Lifestyle correction:
    • Omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin (reduce inflammation).
    • Intermittent fasting (reduces IL-6).

    When IL-6 is low

    • Treatment of the underlying disease (for example, immunodeficiency).
    • Vaccination (if you are prone to infections).

    Interesting facts

    • IL-6 and aging: Chronically elevated levels accelerate aging.
    • Sports: A short-term increase in IL-6 after exercise stimulates muscle growth.

    Conclusion

    IL-6 — ‘two-faced’ cytokine: protects against infections, but in excess harms the body.
    Норма Norm: < 7 pg / ml (blood).
    Increase:

    • >20 pg / ml – acute inflammation,
    • >100 pg / ml – threat of a cytokine storm.
      Correction: medications (tocilizumab), diet, control of chronic diseases.
  • TNF-alpha

    TNF-alpha

    Role of TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-alpha) in the body

    TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a key role in:

    Immune Defense – activates macrophages and neutrophils to fight infections.
    Apoptosis -triggers the death of damaged or cancerous cells.
    In inflammation , it increases the production of other cytokines (IL-1, IL-6).
    Metabolism -affects insulin resistance and lipolysis.
    Thermoregulation – causes fever in infections.


    Symptoms and consequences of TNF-α imbalance

    In excess (hyperinflammation)

    • Acute conditions:
    • Sepsis, cytokine storm (shock, multiple organ failure).
    • Severe infections (COVID-19, tuberculosis).
    • Chronic diseases:
    • Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease).
    • Atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes.
    • Depression, neurodegeneration (Alzheimer’s disease).

    In case of shortage (extremely rare)

    • Susceptibility to infections (especially intracellular ones, such as tuberculosis).
    • Impaired wound healing.
    • Reduced antitumor immunity.

    Note: The complete absence of TNF-α occurs in rare genetic mutations.


    TNF-α standards in assays

    The level of TNF-α is measured in the blood serum by ELISA. References depend on the laboratory, but usually:

    ConditionTNF-a level (pg / ml)
    Healthy people< 8.1
    Mild inflammation8.1–15
    Acute inflammation15–50
    Autoimmune diseases/sepsis> 50 (up to 1000+)

    When is the test scheduled?

    • Suspected sepsis, autoimmune diseases.
    • Monitoring of therapy with biologics (TNF-α inhibitors).
    • Assessment of the severity of COVID-19 and rheumatoid arthritis.

    What should I do if there are deviations?

    At high TNF-α

    1. Drug therapy:
    • TNF-α inhibitors (adalimumab, infliximab for rheumatoid arthritis).
    • Corticosteroids (prednisone).
    1. Natural methods:
    • Curcumin, omega-3 (reduce inflammation).
    • Low-carb diet (reduces insulin resistance).

    At low TNF-α

    • Treatment of basic immunodeficiency.
    • Vaccination (according to indications).

    Interesting facts

    • TNF-α and cancer: in low doses it protects against tumors, in high doses it can stimulate their growth.
    • Depression: Chronically elevated TNF-α disrupts serotonin production.

    Conclusion

    T TNF-α is the ‘guardian’ of immunity, but in excess it destroys tissues.
    Норма Norm: < 8.1 pg / ml (blood).
    Increase:

    • >15 pg / ml – acute inflammation,
    • >50 pg / ml – risk of multiple organ complications.
      Correction: biologics, anti-inflammatory diet.

    Example: In rheumatoid arthritis, a TNF-α level of > 20 pg / ml is an indication for adalimumab.

  • Immunophenotyping of lymphocytes (CD3, CD4, CD8, NK, etc.)

    Immunophenotyping of lymphocytes (CD3, CD4, CD8, NK, etc.)

    Why is it needed?

    This test evaluates the composition and functional state of lymphocytes – key cells of the immune system. It helps you:
    ✔ Diagnose immunodeficiency disorders (HIV, congenital disorders).
    Control autoimmune and oncological diseases (leukemias, lymphomas).
    Evaluate the effectiveness of therapy (for example, for HIV or after transplantation).


    What do Markers (CD) define?

    Each CD (cluster of differentiation) is a protein on the surface of cells that indicates their type and function:

    MarkerCell typeRole in immunity
    CD3+T-lymphocytesThe main «managers» of the immune response.
    CD4+T-helpersThey activate other cells (B-lymphocytes, macrophages).
    CD8+T-killersThey destroy infected and cancerous cells.
    CD19+/CD20+B-lymphocytesThey produce antibodies.
    CD16+/CD56+NK cellsThey kill viruses and tumors without prior ‘training’.

    Symptoms of abnormalities

    Lymphocyte deficiency (immunodeficiency)

    • Frequent infections (pneumonia, fungal infections).
    • Autoimmune complications (due to an imbalance of immunity).
    • Cancer risks (in case of NK-cell deficiency).

    Reasons:

    • HIV (reduced CD4+).
    • Chemotherapy, radiation.
    • Congenital disorders (for example, SCID — ‘bubble boy syndrome’).

    Excess lymphocytes (hyperactivation)

    • Autoimmune attacks (rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis).
    • Allergies (with a Th1/Th2 imbalance).
    • Lymphoproliferative diseases (leukemias).

    Reasons:

    • Chronic infections (hepatitis, tuberculosis).
    • Autoimmune diseases.
    • Lymphoma.

    Norms in analysis

    The results are presented in % of the total number of lymphocytes and absolute numbers (cells/µl).

    Cell populationRelative quantity (%)Absolute quantity (cells/µl)
    CD3+ (T lymphocytes)60–80%900–2200
    CD4+ (T-helper cells)30–60%500–1400
    CD8+ (T-killers)20–40%300–800
    CD4 / CD8 index1.0–2.5
    CD19+ (B-lymphocytes)5–20%100–500
    CD16+ / CD56+ (NK cells)5–20%100–500

    Important:

    • In children under 5 years of age, the norm is higher (especially for B and NK cells).
    • In HIV , the critical level of CD4+ is < 200 cells/µl (risk of AIDS-associated diseases).

    When is the test scheduled?

    1. Suspected immunodeficiency:
    • Frequent acute respiratory viral infections, herpes, candidiasis.
    1. HIV diagnosis:
    • Monitoring of CD4+ and viral load.
    1. Autoimmune diseases:
    • Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus.
    1. Oncology:
    • Leukemias, lymphomas (determine the type of tumor).

    How can I correct deviations?

    With CD4+ deficiency (HIV):

    • Antiretroviral therapy (ART).
    • Prevention of opportunistic infections.

    In case of excessive activity (autoimmune diseases):

    • Immunosuppressants (methotrexate, infliximab).

    To support NK cells:

    • Zinc, vitamin D, and echinacea.

    Sample result


    Conclusion: Immune status is normal.


    Conclusion

    Имму Immunophenotyping – ‘passport’ of immunity, showing the balance of protective cells.
    Rules:

    • CD4+: 500-1400 cells/µl,
    • CD4 / CD8 index: 1.0-2.5.
      Снижение A decrease in CD4+ is a sign of immunodeficiency, an increase in CD8+ is a possible chronic infection.
      Treatment depends on the cause (ART, immunocorrection).