Mom & Doc Talk Podcast: Genetics & Genomics (part 1)

Genetics & Genomics (part 1)

Today we are joined by Dr. Emily Gutierrez to talk about Genetics & Genomics. This will be part #1 in a 2-part series covering the topic. Genetics & Genomics can be a complex subject but we hope to break it down a little bit for you all.

In part 1 we chat about:

The difference between Genetics, Genomics and Epigenetics
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) aka “gene variants” – what they are, and what they can cause
An analogy to explain Chromosomes (Like the structure of a house)
What a genetic “Odds Ratio” means – and how this can help determine the likelihood of experiencing a maladaptive gene expression
The difference between a genetic disease, a chromosomal disease, and a SNP
Genotype vs. Phenotype
The MTHFR gene variant – and what it does
What does MTHFR look like in a PANS/PANDAS kid?
What SNPs could be helpful for PANS/PANDAS families to be aware of?
Certain testing Dr. Gutierrez would recommend, and what it can help to inform
Pharmacogenomics… What is it? How can it be useful?
As a parent, how do you even begin to figure out your test results and what to do about them? (hint hint – working with a knowledgeable provider is best.)
Can genes be “switched on or off?” and how our environment, diet, and lifestyle can affect this