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What are SNPs and why is this information important? |
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SNPs (pronounced "snips") are single nucleotide polymorphisms, which are small but common natural variations in human DNA. Each person's genetic material contains a unique SNP pattern in the DNA strand that serves as the body's instruction book, telling the body in minute detail how to do everything from making bone cells to processing dietary cholesterol to detoxifying spent hormones in the liver. Just as no two people are identical, so every instruction book is different. Each person has several million SNPs that account for the wide variations seen in the spectrum of human appearance and physiology. Some of these processes that are dictated by SNPs and gene expression are more efficient and supportive of health than others. By determining a SNP profile, it is possible to discover which areas are strong and which areas need extra support.
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