Gene Overview:
TNFA (Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha) plays a crucial role in regulating inflammatory pathways. It acts as a trigger to activate a cascade of immune responses. Chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, often associated with elevated TNFA levels, is linked to conditions such as obesity, cardiometabolic diseases, insulin resistance, inflammatory bowel disease, and several cancers.
Key Mutations:
- –238 G>A
- –308 G>A
Impact Allele:
- A allele (for both variants)
What It Means for You:
TNFA –308 G>A
- Impact:
- The A allele increases TNFA function twofold, leading to higher TNFA production.
- Associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and its related conditions, including:
- Overweight and obesity
- Insulin resistance (IR)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol and lipid levels)
- Arthritis conditions
- Lifestyle Considerations:
- Dietary essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 fatty acids, can help modulate inflammation.
- Minimize linoleic acid and arachidonic acid while increasing intake of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) (e.g., from flaxseed oil) and fish oil.
- Regular exercise can suppress TNFA production.
TNFA –238 G>A
- Impact:
- The A allele is associated with a heightened pro-inflammatory profile.
- A allele carriers showed increased levels of inflammatory markers, including IL-6, IL-1β, IL-12, and IL-10.
- Linked to:
- Increased risk of psoriatic arthritis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Higher body mass index (BMI)
- Elevated stroke risk
- Dietary and Lifestyle Tips:
- Whole food diets and avoiding sugar and processed foods help keep inflammation in check.
- Weight management is critical due to the link between increased fat and inflammation.
- Incorporate regular physical activity, which reduces inflammatory markers like TNFA.
Next Steps:
- Consult Your Genomics Specialist or Doctor: Discuss how these variants impact your inflammatory profile and overall health.
- Personalized Action Plan: Focus on diet and lifestyle adjustments to minimize inflammation and its related health risks.
- Monitor Health Markers: Regularly check inflammatory markers, cholesterol, and body composition metrics.