Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Is Melanoma Genetic?
Explore Melanoma and what your DNA can tell you What is melanoma? Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in melanocytes, which are cells that make melanin — the pigment that gives the skin its color. The most common cause of melanoma is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from…
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Nearsightedness
What is nearsightedness? Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is a common eye condition that affects distance vision. Most cases of nearsightedness develop in childhood and stabilize in severity by early adulthood. People with nearsightedness tend to see nearby objects clearly, but objects farther away are blurry or unfocused. This occurs when the shape of the eye…
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A Family Tree
What is a family tree? A family tree is a genealogy chart that illustrates the descent of individuals, their family members and the structure of how they are related. The chart is arranged from oldest generations moving down to younger generations. How is a family tree used? There are many ways people might use family…
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Is Diverticulitis Genetic?
Explore Diverticulitis and what your DNA can tell you What is diverticulitis? Especially as people age, weak spots in the intestinal tract give way to form small pouches or sacs. These pouches are called “diverticula.” (One pouch is called a “diverticulum.”) Scientists don’t know exactly why these pouches form, but it is likely due to…
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SLCO1B1 Drug Transport
What is pharmacogenetics (farm-uh-ko-genetics)? Pharmacogenetics is a big word for a simple idea — your genetics can influence how you process certain medications. Pharmacogenetics can help your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate course of treatment. How does the SLCO1B1 gene impact drug transport in the body? The SLCO1B1 gene contains instructions for making the…
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DPYD Drug Metabolism
What is pharmacogenetics (farm-uh-ko-genetics)? Pharmacogenetics is a big word for a simple idea — your genetics can influence how you process certain medications. Pharmacogenetics can help your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate course of treatment. How does the DPYD gene impact drug metabolism? The DPYD gene contains instructions for making an enzyme called DPD.…
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CYP2C19 Drug Metabolism
What is pharmacogenetics (farm-uh-ko-genetics)? Pharmacogenetics is a big word for a simple idea — your genetics can influence how you process certain medications. Pharmacogenetics can help your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate course of treatment. How does the CYP2C19 gene impact drug metabolism? The CYP2C19 gene contains instructions for making the CYP2C19 enzyme, which…
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Is Severe Acne Genetic?
Explore Severe Acne and what your DNA can tell you What is severe acne? Severe acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles in the skin become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. This can lead to many deep and painful types of pimples along with many whiteheads and blackheads.…
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Is Gestational Diabetes Genetic?
Explore Gestational Diabetes and what your DNA can tell you What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes mellitus, commonly known as gestational diabetes, is a form of diabetes that starts during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the body produces high levels of certain hormones that impair the body’s response to insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar levels. After…
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Are Gallstones Genetic?
Explore Gallstones and what your DNA can tell you What are gallstones? The gallbladder is a small, pouch-like organ underneath the liver that stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fats in the small intestine. Gallstones are solid, pebble-like masses that form in the gallbladder and are typically classified into two types depending on their…
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