Hormones

Subterms

    Latest story

    138 Shares

    Is DNA damage repair possible? Find out from this Dubai-based expert

    by

    Dr. Sladana Pavlovic, Specialist, Internal Medicine, Medcare Medical Center shares more about the intricacies of DNA Testing and how we can fix defects.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?My morning routine typically begins with a peaceful moment of reflection or meditation to set the tone for the upcoming day. I prioritise hydration with a glass of water and a moderate resistance workout to awaken my body. After a nutritious breakfast, I opt to walk to the clinic to amp up on my vitamin D and get my steps count.Talk us through the process of DNA testing and how does it work?Overall, there are several types of DNA or genetic testing. We differentiate between diagnostic DNA testing to identify a suspected mutation causing a specific disease and predictive DNA testing which can comprise prenatal or carrier testing. The process involves a systematic procedure, starting with the collection of biological samples such as blood, saliva or tissue. Extracting DNA entails breaking down cells using specialized chemicals and enzymes, ensuring purification for pristine samples. After nucleic acid isolation, one of the challenges to genomic sequencing methods is the identification of DNA fragments with the same sequence, due to initial preparation of many millions of different sequences with many different DNA pieces. To overcome this problem, the nucleic acid sample is prepared into a “library”—a collection of DNA fragments each with common sequences. During analysis by bioinformatics there is a comparison of the fragments with databases or genetic markers to detect variations or mutations and hence allow interpretation of results, uncover relationships, predispositions or origins. These findings compile into detailed reports, pivotal for forensics, diagnostics, ancestry, and personalided medicine. DNA testing’s advancements have revolutionised genetic understanding, providing critical insights into heritage and health across diverse fields.Stress can increase your biological age – are there any tips to reverse it?Stress significantly accelerates biological aging, impacting both physical and mental health. Yet, lifestyle adjustments offer a potent counterbalance. Mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing show promise in reducing stress hormones and hence slowing ageing. Simultaneously, regular physical activity not only lowers stress levels but also nurtures cellular health, metabolism, and mental well-being through mood-boosting endorphins. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients becomes a vital defence against stress-induced free radicals, supporting cellular health and potentially reversing aging effects. Additionally we can add antioxidants in the form of supplements to enhance our dietary intake. Prioritising restful sleep aids cellular repair, countering stress-related wear and tear. Integrating stress management techniques and seeking professional guidance equips individuals with coping strategies, mitigating stress’s impact on biological age and overall well-being.There are millions of DNA pieces in a single drop of blood – tell us more.In a mere droplet of blood, there exist millions of distinct DNA fragments. These microscopic segments encapsulate an individual’s genetic blueprint, offering an expansive reservoir of biological information. Each fragment carries a unique code, contributing to the comprehensive understanding of an individual’s genetic makeup and inherent characteristics. The abundance of these DNA pieces within a single drop of blood facilitates profound analysis, unravelling the complexities and nuances of one’s genetic composition and providing invaluable insights into their traits and predispositions.Dr. Sladana Pavlovic, Specialist, Internal Medicine, Medcare Medical CenterPrime editing is the latest advance in the field of gene editing, which is developing at an incredible pace. – Can this edit DNA?Prime editing, a cutting-edge breakthrough in gene editing, represents a “search and replace” technology with a rapid evolution in the field. This method enables highly precise modifications in genome editing technology that can perform all 12 possible base-to-base conversions, insertions, and deletions by employing a customized Cas9 enzyme coupled with a reverse transcriptase. Its refined approach holds immense promise in rectifying genetic mutations, presenting novel opportunities for addressing a spectrum of genetic disorders and diseases with exceptional precision and efficacy. However, it is a fairly new method which definitely required further scientific research and studies for optimization.Is it possible to fix the DNA damage effects? – tell us more.Repairing DNA damage is feasible through intricate cellular mechanisms like DNA repair pathways. Yet, certain factors affect the effectiveness of repair. The extent and type of damage, environmental exposures (radiation, toxins), and an individual’s age or genetic predisposition influence repair capabilities. Repair mechanisms might fail if overwhelmed by extensive damage or impaired due to aging or genetic mutations. However, advancements in research and technology continually unveil new strategies to enhance repair processes. Understanding these factors and exploring innovative interventions holds promise in improving DNA damage repair, potentially mitigating its effects on genetic stability, and preventing associated health issues.Spending a day in the sun can cause 100,000 DNA defects in each exposed skin cell – what’s the best way to take precaution?Shielding skin from excessive UV light exposure is crucial. Employing broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF with two hourly reapplication is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent sun damage. Protective clothing and avoidance of high UV exposure during peak sun hours are additional measures generally recommended. Regular and sufficient hydration is also considered very effective to aid skin health. Seeing a dermatologist annually for a skin check-up is a major factor in preventing malignant course of skin changes and early skin cancer detection. A combination of these precautions significantly reduces DNA damage risks caused by sun exposure, safeguarding skin cells from the harmful effects of UV radiation and decreasing the likelihood of long-term skin damage and mutations.What are the innovations in DNA testing – how has this grown over the years?Innovations in DNA testing have surged, evolving from early techniques like PCR to advanced methods such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and CRISPR-based technologies. NGS enables faster, cost-effective whole-genome sequencing, revolutionizing research, and diagnostics. CRISPR offers precise gene editing, promising therapeutic breakthroughs. Miniaturization and automation streamline processes, enhancing efficiency. Moreover, AI integration expedites data analysis. Over the years, DNA testing has transcended boundaries, expanding applications in medicine, forensics, agriculture, and personalised health, fostering a profound impact on diverse fields, and shaping the future of genetic exploration.Are more people in the UAE testing their DNA – how has the curiosity grown over the years.The interest in DNA testing has seen a notable rise in the UAE over the years. Factors like increased awareness, advancements in technology, increased focus on health and a growing curiosity about ancestry have propelled this trend. The availability of direct-to-consumer DNA testing kits has made it more accessible to individuals, fostering curiosity about genetic heritage, predispositions to diseases, and personalized health insights.This is ‘The Tech Issue’ – how does technology help you improve your daily life?Technology enhances daily life through connectivity, efficiency, and convenience. Communication tools like smartphones and social media foster instant connections worldwide. The biggest advantage undeniably is the access to infinity learning platforms and access to vast information. Being a doctor I would like to emphasize telemedicine which has offered us an opportunity to monitor patients in remote areas, adjust therapy plans and hence reduce hospitalisation rates. Overall, technology catalyses convenience, connectivity, and productivity, transforming routines and enabling a more connected, efficient, and versatile lifestyle for individuals across diverse spheres of daily life.February’s – The Tech Issue with Christiana Maxion  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

    More stories

    • 125 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      The Weird Way Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Guy’s Hormones

      by

      We all know how that moodiness around our periods can drive our partners just a bit insane. But your menstrual cycle actually has a biological effect on your partner, too. Yup, per a study, your cycle could boost his testosterone levels. Ah, hormones…

      The study

      Animal studies found that olfactory cues of ovulation (when a biological female releases an egg, awaiting fertilisation by sperm) affected male testosterone levels. Studies conducted by researchers from Florida State University found that the same thing happens to male humans.

      In the studies, women wore t-shirts during different phases of their menstrual cycles. The men in the studies smelled one of the t-shirts worn by a female or unworn t-shirts. Saliva samples were collected before and after smelling the t-shirts s and measured for testosterone levels.

      Men who smelled the t-shirts of ovulating women had higher levels of testosterone than men who smelled a t-shirt worn when the women were not ovulating or a control t-shirt. The scent of t-shirts worn when the women were ovulating was rated as the most pleasing. These olfactory findings brighten the signal that when you’re ovulating, it’s prime time for fun in the sheets.

      But the needle can swing both ways. In another study, researchers measured levels of hormones in heterosexual partners throughout the woman’s menstrual cycle. What they found was surprising: during ovulation, when levels of estradiol are elevated, both partners felt more negatively toward each other than at other times of the cycle. Clearly, your menstrual cycle plays a bigger part in the relationship than you’d think.

      To move closer together, try talking about your feelings to clear the air and make way for a deeper connection and yes, more sex.

      When his testosterone starts to wane…

      With age, men’s testosterone levels do naturally start to decrease. Instead of shoving your nightie under his nose once a month, you could also steer him in the direction of these healthy foods, proven to up his levels: eggs, peanuts, yoghurt, oysters, garlic, oats, avocado, salmon (or other oily fish), fresh fruit and veg, pine nuts, brown rice and liver.

      Add some spice with a sex toy

      We-Vibe Unite Couples Vibrator

      Get that extra deep clitoral stimulation during sex with this remote-controlled toy that you can both enjoy. More

    • 75 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      4 Ways to Support Healthy Ageing

      by

      Want to support you body through its healthy ageing? Try these four simple steps and you’ll never look back (or if you do, at least your neck won’t hurt).
      1. Load it up
      To optimise your bone health through perimenopause and beyond, resistance train twice weekly. Studies show it helps kick bone-forming cells into action, while slowing down age-related bone mass decline.
      Any form is great, but compound lifts such as squats and deadlifts deliver the heaviest skeleton benefits*.
      READ MORE: Millennials Are Turning 40, But How Healthy are They, Really?
      2. Wear SPF, rain or shine
      You heard: even when the cloud cover is more dense than your grade 9 bully, it pays to slap it on.
      In a 2016 study, people who applied an SPF straight after washing their face each morning showed reduced symptoms of skin ageing – such as wrinkles and uneven skintone – after an 18-month period.
      READ MORE: 10 Mineral Sunscreens That Won’t Damage Your Skin Or The Environment
      3. Eat for your hormones
      With oestrogen stores declining as you head towards menopause, including phytoestrogens (naturally occurring plant substances that imitate the OG) in your diet can have a balancing effect.
      According to an Iranian study*, help reduce the frequency of hot flushes in menopausal women. Find them in soya beans, legumes and whole grains.
      4. Take it to paper
      If life right now feels like you’re juggling an impossible amount, whack out your journal.
      Journalling had been shown to boost cognitive function and memory, relieve stress, improve mindfulness and even help support your immune system, per a US study*. Research suggests 20 minutes, three or four days a week, is plenty.
      READ MORE: Struggle to Get to Sleep? Try These 5 Breathing Techniques
      This article was originally published in the September issue of Women’s Health UK.

      READ MORE ON: Health Advice Hormones Mental Wellness Periods More