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 needed. A mutation in either one of these genes causes a disruption in the physical and emotional effects of the individual.

Supplements that can be helpful:

• Magnesium is required for proper COMT function.
• Vitamin B6 is a cofactor to the COMT enzyme, so it can be helpful in its ability to be properly activated, but it must be added in slowly to avoid reactions..

Studies show “Catecholaminergic systems are involved in the regulation of aggressive behavior”.

(Catecholamines and aggression: the role of COMT and MAO polymorphisms.)

PON 1

The PON 1 gene relates to how our body’s metabolize organophosphates. It also relates to the susceptibility of vaccine reactions. 

Histamine Sensitivity (DAO)

Histamines are released by the digestive tract and the brain. When the DAO enzymes are mutated then it is difficult to remove histamine.  Histamine reactions come from the body having an allergic reaction. The body sees a food as an allergy when the immune system gets triggered to release histamine. Common symptoms are hives, extreme mood changes, poor sleep, Common causes are related to leaky gut and the MTHFR gene mutation. This can happen when an ill gut blocks methylation (MTHFR). 

For SNP’s and autism health to become balanced it is crucial to heal the gut and regulate a proper diet, and avoid specific foods beginning with a food guide.

In Summary

The SNP’s or snips, MTHFR , COMT, MAO, and histamines can contribute or be the cause of both physical and behavioral issues such as manic or depressive behaviors, pain disorders, aggression, anxiety, poor sleep, food allergies, inflammation, and much more. By working with a supportive diet and natural supplementation we can improve these symptoms and the health and behavioral symptoms of autism. Diet is exceptionally important and the gut must be healed properly.

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