Epigenetic Testing: Connecting With Consumers
Epigenetic testing has the potential to give healthcare insights that seem like something from a science fiction movie. If you're involved in epigenetic testing for businesses, growing your consumer base can involve clearly marketing the benefits of your services to specific demographics.
Here are some steps to increase your market share in the epigenetic testing business:
Testing Types
Epigenetic testing can be broadly divided between tests that isolate proteins and those that isolate gene expressions. Explaining the difference to potential customers can stoke curiosity and help them feel empowered.
Methylation: this involves looking at changes in the way that methyl groups are added to or removed from specific regions of the DNA. Methylation is a process that helps to control gene expression, and changes in methylation patterns can have a significant impact on an individual's health. For example, changes in methylation patterns have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer.
Proteins: this involves looking at changes in the way that histone proteins, which help to package and organize DNA, are modified. Histone modifications can also have a significant impact on gene expression and disease risk. Histone protein testing is better suited for individuals looking for insights into potential disease risks and other genetic health factors. For example, changes in histone modifications have been linked to an increased risk of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.
Strengths and Limitations
Epigenetic testing is at the cutting edge of modern medicine. Although the potential strengths of epigenetic testing are numerous, it's important to be realistic with customers about its limitations. While epigenetic testing can provide valuable insights into an individual's health, it is important to remember that the results of these tests should be interpreted in the context of other factors, such as family history and lifestyle choices.
Strengths: epigenetic testing can be used to assess an individual's risk for a wide range of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and mental health disorders. This can help individuals and healthcare providers manage risks. For instance, if methylation testing identifies gene patterns consistent with breast cancer, a patient and their healthcare provider might test more regularly.
Limitations: epigenetic testing is not a diagnostic tool. However, it is a research tool used to understand the underlying mechanisms of different conditions and diseases. Epigenetic testing is also still in its infancy and more research is needed to fully understand its implications and applications. For instance, the initial results of a histone protein test should not be considered the same as a positive result for identifying conditions like mood disorders or other mental health conditions.
