We all know that our DNA makes us who we are. It determines our skin, hair, and eye color; it determines the shape of our nose and the contours of our face. Even more so, our DNA can tell us if we have an increased risk for certain diseases. It can also warn us of possible health conditions, and even skin conditions.
During times like these, we are made more aware of the fragility of life and our health. We want to take more precautions to sustain our wellness. One very important, yet overlooked, barrier to many infections and possible disease risks is the health of our skin. If our skin is healthy, we can fight off infections a lot easier.
Sometimes, changes in your DNA can make you more susceptible to certain skin conditions and characteristics. You need to understand these risks for your skin. Doing so will enable you to follow a more accurate skincare regimen that is prescribed specifically for you.
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DNA tests can detect these changes in your DNA. This includes small variations in your genetic code known as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). These variations create a genetic profile for your skin. They can provide insight into your genetic predisposition for certain skin characteristics and/or conditions.
Inflammation and oxidative stress
Regular exposure to UV radiation leads to the activation of macrophages. This results in the release of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which degrade the extracellular matrix. This in turn leads to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species. This can contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation. If you already have a genetic susceptibility for inflammation, these processes could be exacerbated. This could then weaken the skin’s barrier defense.
Detoxification
Detoxification involves the process of breaking down toxic substances that we are exposed to and safely excreting them. Our skin is exposed to a variety of toxins on a regular basis. If these toxins are not efficiently broken down, it can lead to an accumulation within the skin. This can then result in dermal sensitivity and accelerated aging. Skin redness, sensitivity, and rashes may lead to an impaired barrier.
Wrinkles, volume loss, and glycation
Mutations in genes that encode for MMP1 and collagen type 1 (COL1A1) can increase your risk for volume loss and accelerated skin aging. Certain mutations can also increase the production or accumulation of advanced glycation end products. These end products can contribute to the aging process in multiple systems, particularly the skin.
Protection and repair
Sometimes conditions such as exposure to UV radiation, environmental pollutants, or toxic substances can result in DNA damage. Certain genes within our cells express proteins and enzymes that can recognize and repair these damaged pieces of DNA. If these genes have variations within their genetic code, it could impact their ability to express fully functional proteins/enzymes. This could therefore impact the repair process of our DNA. This could result in the accumulation of damaged DNA, and lead to cellular damage and premature aging.
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Pigmentation and sun sensitivity
Certain genes in your cells play an imperative role in determining the level of melanin production. They also affect your genetic risk for certain skin conditions. Variations in these genes may lead to lower melanin synthesis . It may also lead to increased pheomelanin production, increasing your risk for sun sensitivity.
Additionally, certain genes that look at melanin synthesis and sun sensitivity may also contribute to an increased risk for;
- melanoma
- non-melanoma
- squamous cell carcinomas
You should consider improving your health by looking at what you put into your body. However, don’t stop there. You should also look at how you look after your principal natural barrier to infections: your skin.
Who is the author?
Dr. Samantha Baron is head of genetics at Skin Rejuvenation Technologies and a research professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) focused on Genetics, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology. She has both industry and academic experience which attributes to a unique set of research, innovation, and management skills.
She’s an experienced Research and Development Scientist accomplished in product innovation and design.
Academically, she has co-supervised several students for the completion of their BSc (Hons.) and Masters degrees. She has taught several courses and practical’s to undergraduate and BSc (Hons.) students. She has a strong academic research profile with eight peer-reviewed publications and a patent.
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This article is extracted from the 2020/21 Longevity Holiday Edition in printed format.
