Precision Wellness Starts With Your DNA

Genetics may influence experience with cannabis and CBD. With increased access to legal cannabis and the research community expanding their focus on the medicinal uses of cannabinoids, more and more consumers are seeking cannabis for health and wellness. However, cannabinoids and terpenes are extremely complex and research tells us that users can have vastly different physiological responses to individual strains/chemovars or products. [8] This makes it almost impossible to find a perfectly aligned product through trial and error. The truth is, cannabis is personal, and uncovering true endocompatibility for each individual user can be scientifically validated. Combining genomics with biomarkers and measurable outcomes allows us to develop better predictive inferences. There are statistics of adverse events with delta9 THC consumption and drug to drug interaction resulting in psychotomimetic effects among others. [1] (Sorensen 2017).

In the realm of modern healthcare, the integration of personalized wellness approaches has garnered significant attention for its potential to optimize patient outcomes. DNA emerges as a pioneering force in this paradigm shift, capitalizing on the transformative capabilities of genetic testing to tailor healthcare solutions to individual genetic profiles. This abstract elucidates the multifaceted contributions of that DNA testing and analysis, delving into its foundational pillars of personalized wellness, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive insights.

Personalized precision therapeutics can be used to support in mitigation of these adverse events looking at Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs) along with Pharmacogenomics (PGx) for drug to drug interaction and Pharmacokinetics for dosing based on metabolic function.

Methods: A health profile is used along with a buccal swab EndoDNA test to identify genetic patterns in the cohort of significant relevance. In addition, care councilors received protocol efficacy feedback as well as the use of a biometric device.

Results: Findings include mutations in genes coding COMT (p=0.0009), TRPV1 (p=0.021), CYP2C9 (p=0.0414), DRD2 (p=0.027) and ABCA1 (p=0.008) were clustered and analyzed to identify a genetic pattern for this specific adverse event.

[2] COMT – COMT (catechol-o-methyltransferase) is best known for its association with dopamine levels and processing. Studies have shown an association between mutations of the COMT gene and depression, ADHD & OCD. Dopamine imbalances caused by variations in COMT may influence the processing of THC resulting in a higher rate of CHS.

[3] TRPV1 – TRPV1 regulates receptors which respond to heat, ethanol, low pH and are known to interest with CBD and other compounds present in cannabis. TRPV1 has been linked to anxiety and pain responses. Mutations in TRPV1 may be responsible for the hot bathing behavior and abdominal pain present in CHS.

[4] ABCA1 – ABCA1 regulates a protein which affects cholesterol and phospholipid levels. Some studies have shown that ABCB1 may alter alter drug pharmacokinetics, and increased cannabis dependency.

[5] CYP2C9 – CYP2C9 is associated with the metabolism of many pharmaceuticals and is one the primary metabolizer of THC. Variations in the CYP2C9 may result in an altered metabolization of THC, resulting in a higher rate of CHS.

[6] CYP2C19 – CYP2C19 is associated with the metabolism of many pharmaceuticals and is an accessory metabolizer of THC. Variations in the CYP2C19 may result in an altered metabolization of THC, resulting in a higher rate of CHS.

[7] DRD2 - DRD2 is associated with dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter which, in simple terms, controls our brain’s reward system. Due to this, dopamine plays a primary role in addiction, fear memory, depression and anxiety. In the past, drugs which target these transmitters often have an effect on the digestive system. The excessive cannabis consumption and nausea associated with CHS may be explainable by mutations in DRD2.

Conclusion: This is the largest observational study ever conducted on phytocannabinoid effects correlating with a genotyping method. A peer reviewed approved study was published as a partial example of study findings. Western IRB, peer reviewed, and first to note associated mutations in genes affecting the ECS and neurotransmitter systems that may elucidate the pathophysiology of these adverse events.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Discuss the latest research and scientific evidence to evaluate and confidently use cannabinoid therapeutics for individually defined optimal outcomes.

2. Explain the scientifically based, genetically focused resource that consistently and reliably matches individuals with the most compatible cannabinoid products.

3. Review specific clinical applications this method is being used in (Phase 2 Clinical Trial).