Collagen is one of the most popular supplements today, but does it affect your body weight? Some people claim collagen does help you lose weight, while others worry it might make you gain weight. What is the truth behind these claims? Read on to explore the science behind collagen and its impact on your weight. We will also discuss collagen's benefits and side effects and whether you need collagen supplements.
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? This allows you to take proactive measures for health conditions, even before the symptoms appear, thereby preventing it. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Collagen is the most extensively present protein in the human body. It is a major component of connective tissues, including the skin, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.
Collagen provides structure, strength, and elasticity to these tissues. It constitutes approximately 30% of the protein in the human body.
Collagen comprises three polypeptide chains that twist together to form a triple helix structure, providing strength and resilience. These chains contain essential amino acids, such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.
Collagen does several important things in the body, including:
Collagen has many benefits for your health and appearance, but here are the 3 most notable ones:
Collagen supplements are products that contain collagen derived from animal sources, such as:
They are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, liquids, and gummies. You can take them by mouth or apply them directly to your skin.
Collagen supplements are used for a variety of reasons, but they are most commonly taken by:
Collagen supplements are generally safe for the majority of individuals. However, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement.
A common worry regarding collagen supplements is whether they can lead to weight gain.
The simple answer is no. Collagen does not cause weight gain. It is a type of protein, and proteins are not stored in the body as fat.
Some people may experience bloating or gas after taking collagen supplements. This is usually due to the type or quality of the collagen supplement or the way your digestive system processes it. To avoid this side effect, you should:
In a scientific study, researchers explored how collagen, gelatin, and collagen peptides interact with water. They used specialized equipment to understand this phenomenon.
Their findings revealed that collagen possesses the highest water retention capacity, with gelatin coming next and collagen peptides having the least water-holding ability.
Under around 60% humidity, collagen retained 22% of its weight as water, while gelatin held 14%, and peptides retained only 9%.
All three substances mainly attracted water molecules with longer hydrogen bonds, indicating effective water retention.
Furthermore, collagen exhibited a stronger interaction with water than gelatin and peptides.
It bonded more firmly with specific collagen components, such as aliphatic CH2, CH3, amides, COO-, and C-O.
The study also suggested that water molecules were attracted to the polar C-O bonds in collagen fibrils comprising the collagen structure.
These fibrils contain sugars that act as links, and water molecules also interact with the aliphatic CH side chains on the surface of these fibrils.
However, it shows how collagen's exceptional water retention properties and robust interaction with various collagen components make it an effective water retainer.
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Contrary to the myth that collagen can make you gain weight, it helps you lose weight by promoting satiety, reducing fat accumulation, and speeding up metabolism.
Collagen can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your appetite and cravings.
This is because collagen, rich in protein, suppresses hunger hormones (ghrelin) and stimulates satiety hormones (cholecystokinin and glucagon-like peptide-1).
Reducing your calorie intake can create a deficit essential for losing weight.
Some studies suggest that collagen may help reduce the development and accumulation of fat cells.
A 2019 research on collagen from skatefish indicated a potential human body fat reduction.
An animal study published in 2016 found that hydrolysate (collagen peptides) can reduce fat cell size and weight gain.
It's uncertain if collagen speeds up metabolism, but there are indications it might:
Besides helping with weight loss, collagen has many other benefits for your health and appearance, such as:
Collagen can cause side effects ranging from common and mild to severe. Here's a breakdown of these side effects:
Common Side Effects:
Severe Side Effects:
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Collagen supplements are not essential for everyone. You can obtain enough collagen from protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy or collagen-containing options like bone broth and gelatin.
Boosting your body's natural collagen production is also possible by including foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits), vitamin A (carrots), and zinc (oysters) in your diet.
Collagen supplements can benefit those with collagen deficiencies or conditions affecting collagen synthesis, including osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and skin aging.
However, the evidence regarding the effectiveness of collagen supplements varies, and additional research is required to confirm their safety and advantages.
If you are considering taking collagen supplements, it's advisable to consult with your doctor first.
Collagen does not cause weight gain. In fact, it helps in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness, reducing fat accumulation, and speeding up metabolism.
Collagen offers a range of other benefits, including improving gut health, supporting brain function, and enhancing heart health.
While some side effects can be associated with collagen supplements, they are generally safe for most people.
Remember that collagen supplements are unnecessary for everyone, as you can obtain sufficient collagen from a balanced diet.
If you are thinking of taking collagen supplements, it is advisable to consult with your doctor beforehand.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8521576/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8620403/
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/vegan-collagen-what-to-know
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32622049/
https://www.healthline.com/health/diet-and-weight-loss/collagen-for-weight-loss
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6471368/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5118756/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen-benefits
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/03/120305081419.htm
https://www.verywellhealth.com/collagen-supplements-for-skin-89940
While many quickly point to tight shoes as culprits for bunions, the backstory might be more rooted in our genes than our wardrobe choices. Much like inheriting specific facial features or body types from our parents, our feet's shape and structure—down to conditions like bunions—might also be a family legacy. This article delves deep into bunions and aims to answer the question, "are bunions genetic?" while exploring how hereditary factors combine with external influences in shaping our feet's health and appearance.
Genetic ancestry tests are becoming increasingly popular. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about your health risks and wellness aspects? This allows you to take proactive measures for health conditions, even before the symptoms appear, thereby preventing it. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Bunions are bony bumps on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.
They are also called hallux valgus.
Bunions can exert pressure on the joint and move the big toe out of place.
Bunions can cause foot pain, stiffness, and swelling.
If left untreated, they can get worse over time.
A small bump at the base of the big toe is common.
It could be a part of the average foot shape.
Bunions themselves are also reasonably common.
They are reported in 23 percent of people aged between 18 and 65 and 36 percent of people older than that.
Some people feel bunions are harmless and don't need treatment.
However, bunions are a symptom of a progressive bone disorder and can cause long-term problems if left untreated.
Bunions can occur at any age.
However, they are more common as you get older.
People start to notice bunions, usually in their 20s or 30s.
However, children as young as 4 or 5 can also develop bunions.
Rarely children may be born with bunions, called congenital hallux vagus.
The earlier the onset, the more severe the problem.
A bunion looks like a bulging bump on the outside of the base of the big toe.
It might be accompanied by swelling and redness around the big toe joint.
The exact cause of developing bunions is not known.
However, multiple factors could contribute to it.
Bunions are genetic, although they don't have a clear inheritance pattern.
Many affected individuals have multiple family members affected by bunions.
The risk of developing bunions is higher for those with first-degree relatives affected by the condition, such as a parent or a sibling.
Bunions need a clear pattern of inheritance.
You can inherit it from either of your parents.
You also have a risk of having if your siblings have bunions.
Surprisingly, some people will never have bunions, even if it runs in their families.
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There are no specific genes associated with bunions.
Some foot shapes and conditions are associated with an increased risk of developing bunions.
Hypermobility is a genetic condition where the ligaments are loose and cannot hold the metatarsal in place.
A tight Achilles tendon is also a genetic condition and a risk factor for bunions.
Your genes increase the risk of you getting bunions.
However, it does not mean that you will get them.
Sometimes, you might not get them even if you have them in your family.
Likewise, you can get them even though no one in your family has the condition.
If you risk developing bunions, consider monitoring your feet and wearing comfortable footwear.
Even if you get them, you can prevent it from worsening.
Children are rarely born with bunions.
However, a person can be born with an abnormal alignment of bones, which can cause bunions later in life.
Thus, bunions are not precisely a congenital disability.
Bunion is a genetic condition and runs in families.
People with a parent or sibling with bunions are more likely to develop bunions over time.
Women are more likely to have bunions than men.
Pregnancy and menopause can worsen bunions.
Bunion is a common condition and can be managed with treatment.
Treatment options include management techniques and surgery.
Even if you have a foot shape that can potentially lead to developing bunions, you can still prevent it from setting.
Treatment options for bunions include conservative measures and surgery.
Bunions can be managed by:
Bunions don't heal on their own.
However, supportive treatment can help alleviate pain and relieve symptoms.
Non-surgical methods can also prevent bunions from worsening.
However, surgery is required if you want to cure bunions completely.
Exercising can help with bunions.
Five critical muscles in the leg help support body weight and foot movement.
When strengthened, these muscles, 3 in the foot and 2 in the calf can help reduce bunion-rated pain.
Simple exercises like calf raises and picking up small objects with your toes will help strengthen these muscles and prevent bunions.
Bunions are a bump that forms at the base of the big toe.
It is a common condition that usually affects adults.
If left untreated, it can worsen over time and lead to pain and mobility issues.
Bunions are genetic and run in families.
Some diseases like polio can also be a risk factor for developing bunions.
Wearing comfortable footwear and exercising the feet can help manage bunion pain.
If the condition is severe, you can also opt for surgery.
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/bunion/#inheritance
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513134/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513134/
Have you taken a test with 23andMe? Well, you just have found a gold mine! Inside your 23andMe DNA Raw Data, you have 700,000+ variants that can be used to learn a world about your health, including your genetic risk for autism.
Before we jump into how you can use your 23andMe data to learn this information, let's first learn a bit about autism.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders that are characterized by language, communication, social, and behavioral problems. The severity of these problems varies in different individuals and primarily consists of three separate conditions:
According to a report released in 2012, ASD is quite common and affects 1 in every 54 boys and 1 in every 68 children.
ASD is 4-5 times more common in boys than in girls and affects all races and ethnicity.
Studies so far have not established the etiology of ASD. However, it is suggested that ASD could be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
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The early signs of ASD or its constituent conditions are often mild and vary from person to person.
One of the first signs that appear is in infants.
Generally, infants are very playful, enthusiastic, full of energy, and very curious about what is happening around them. However, a child with ASD would not be that curious about surrounding occurrences.
A few early symptoms seen in infants and children include minimal reactions, slow development of language and communication, the slow movement of eyes, lack of responsiveness, lack of interest in communication, excessive temper and tantrums, obsessive habits, repetitive actions, etc.
Whenever a child is taken to the pediatrician for routine checkups, they check for different signs to detect any form of ASD.
In case parents doubt their child, they can request to be referred to a genetic counselor or ask the specialist to perform certain preliminary and genetic tests to confirm the same.
It has been said time and again that ASD has strong genetic roots, but nothing has been conclusively ever proved.
But, since the genetic link of ASD has not been disproved, it is being used in a large number of patients to detect ASD and its associated conditions.
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When talking about genetic testing for ASD, we must first understand that the causes of ASD are heterogeneous, which means that the roots are multifactorial. One of the many links is genetics. A large-scale study claimed that there were about 18 genetic variations that may be associated with an increased risk of developing the disorder.
Even though the genetic testing for ASD continues, the results we have obtained so far help divide autism and ASD into different categories, leading to each condition and disorder being diagnosed and managed differently.
Once all these findings are integrated into a more organized format, each patient will be able to receive a personalized diagnosis and treatment based on the variations seen in him/her.
There are many genetic causes of autism, including chromosomal abnormalities and gene deletions. But it is also relieving to know that scientists are confident to devise medications against 80% of these 61 genetic mutations.
Some genetic mutations coexisted with other comorbidities and conditions like seizures and diabetes. It is also interesting to note that these genetic variations always occur along with other connected genetic mutations and not in isolation.
It must be made clear that genetic testing does not diagnose autism in an individual. These tests only help in identifying any genetic or chromosomal changes.
Also, there is no single test that can point out an increased risk of ASD. So then, why should one advise a genetic test for ASD?
Genetic testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder is commonly done in two tiers.
Tier I includes:
Tier II tests include molecular testing. A genetic test for ASD children can help parents determine what type of treatments their child can benefit from and, more importantly, throw some light on why a child developed ASD in the first place.
The chromosome microarray analysis and Fragile X syndrome tests are done more commonly to detect ASD. There are, however, some myths around genetic testing for ASD and autism.
Step 1
Login To Your 23andMe Account
Step 2
Download your 23andMe DNA Raw Data
Step 3
Head over to Xcode Life's report page, and add the "Gene Health" report to cart.
Step 4 (a secret tip)
At checkout, you'll be able to upgrade to the Health Pack at 41% OFF. So, if you see fit, feel free to upgrade your order.
Step 5
Complete the order, and you'll be taken to your account dashboard, where you can upload your DNA data.
Step 6
Sit back and relax while you receive your report within 24 hours.
Note:
Xcode Life's reports are only for informational purposes and do not diagnose any condition. The reports are not to be treated as clinical findings. Please take the help of your medical practitioner to interpret the reports.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a huge umbrella under which multiple conditions manifest various symptoms. We also know that these occur due to many genetic variations in various genes that result in ASD and autism. The disorder spectrum is still under research, and we can only hope that shortly genetic testing for ASD becomes more conclusive and leads to better prognosis and quality of life for the children.
Find out which genetic variants of autism spectrum you or your child have in Xcode Life's Gene Health report.
Are you looking for a natural solution to improve your health and wellness? Luteolin supplements have been gaining popularity as a promising alternative to traditional medications. But what exactly is luteolin, how should you use it, and what are its benefits and side effects? This article delves into the world of luteolin supplements to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
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Luteolin is a flavonoid present in several fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
It is a yellow crystalline chemical in its pure form.
Did you know: Luteolin was used as a source of yellow dye way back in the first millennia?
Luteolin protects plants from microbial infections and other threats from the environment.
It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Due to these properties, it prevents oxidative cellular damage, strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and helps fight cancer.
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense against harmful stimuli like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
Inflammation can be of two types:
Chronic inflammation leads to the development of various diseases like arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiac diseases, and others.
During the inflammatory process, macrophages (a type of white blood cells) activate different molecules, including cytokines, tumor necrosis factors, interleukins, and free radicals.
Cytokines are small protein molecules that regulate the immune response in the body.
Luteolin suppresses the production of cytokines and the pathways that stimulate a cellular response, leading to inflammation.
By doing so, luteolin can suppress the number of activated macrophages and subsequently reduce the production of inflammatory molecules.
By suppressing various inflammatory pathways, luteolin is said to lower acute and chronic inflammation.
Your body gives signs and indications when it requires more luteolin.
Luteolin is indicated in people dealing with inflammatory conditions like gout, asthma, skin psoriasis, and erythema.
Luteolin supplements are available in the following forms:
These supplements may be used or recommended for the following reasons:
Mast cells are a part of the body’s defense mechanism and protect the body from bacterial infections.
But, they may cause side effects in people with allergies.
When the body encounters a small number of allergens, it produces immunoglobulin E (IgE).
However, when the allergy increases, mast cells disintegrate to release histamine.
Histamine is a hormone known to cause typical allergy signs, including stuffy nose, excessive sneezing, brain fog, and congestion.
Consuming luteolin can prevent the degeneration of mast cells and improve allergy symptoms.
All flavonoids have strong antioxidant properties.
They are responsible for the elimination and prevention of the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).
As a result, they are responsible for a wide range of chronic conditions like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and others.
Luteolin is known to hunt down ROS and prevent the risk of chronic diseases.
Cancer occurs when the body cells divide, multiply and grow uncontrollably.
Luteolin prevents abnormal cell growth by improving the cell cycle and interfering with cell growth.
Luteolin also prevents metastasis of cancer (spread to distant parts of the body from the site of origin) by suppressing cytokine production (responsible for metastasis).
Increased estrogen levels are a known cause of common cancers like breast, ovaries, and prostate cancers.
Estrogen encourages the growth of cancer cells and stimulates them to multiply.
Luteolin competes with estrogen to bind to receptors, thereby showing anti-estrogenic activity.
Luteolin is known to reduce stress and anxiety. It also promotes better social interaction.
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Luteolin supplements are still under research and are not recommended by the FDA for medical use.
Most luteolin supplements contain a mixture of luteolin and rutin (a flavonoid derived from quercetin).
The standard dosage mentioned on product labels ranges from 100-300 mg per serving.
Discussing the suitable dosage with your doctor before taking luteolin supplements is always recommended.
Though commonly eaten for its health benefits, the safety profile of luteolin is relatively unknown.
A few side effects reported with luteolin consumption include:
Foods that are rich in luteolin include
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have been on a concerning rise in the United States. In a proactive response to this growing health concern, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently unveiled a draft proposal that spotlights a potential strategy for STI prevention. Their recommendation revolves around the use of the antibiotic doxycycline. It is being considered as a postexposure prophylactic (PEP) or what many are terming a "morning-after" pill. This approach is specifically aimed at individuals with an especially high risk of acquiring infections like chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea. This method, labeled as doxy-PEP, is being hailed as a novel approach in the fight against STIs, indicating a paradigm shift in how sexual health might be managed in the future. As we delve deeper into the topic, we will explore how doxycycline works, its efficacy, ideal times of administration, potential risks, and more.
Certain genes influence how you respond to drugs - this can affect the effectiveness of the drug, increase the risk of side effects, or may result in drug toxicity. While your DNA can be used to learn about your roots, did you know that it can also reveal important things about the genes that affect drug response? This allows you to tailor your treatment to your DNA to achieve the best result without any side effects. You can upload your DNA data to learn 1,500+ things about your health. Learn more.
Sexually transmitted infections, commonly referred to as STIs, have been escalating in prevalence within the United States, particularly since 2014.
Recent data revealed an alarming 2.5 million reported cases of bacterial STIs like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis in 2021.
Given the preventable nature of these infections and the serious health implications they can have, it underscores a national health crisis.
So, where do antibiotics fit in this picture?
Recent research suggests that antibiotics, especially doxycycline, might be pivotal in preventing STIs.
A notable study involved 501 men, all sexually active with men and had been diagnosed with an STI in the preceding year.
In this study, the participants were given 200 milligrams of doxycycline within 72 hours after unprotected sexual activity.
The objective was to assess if this antibiotic could decrease their likelihood of contracting gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis.
The results were promising.
Those who were administered the doxycycline post-exposure prophylactic (doxy-PEP) demonstrated a remarkable 65% efficacy in preventing these infections compared to those who received standard care.
In more tangible terms, every three months, the incidence rates for these STIs were about two-thirds lower for the group on doxy-PEP.
When medications like doxycycline are introduced shortly after a risky sexual encounter, they act promptly on any potential infection, thus nipping it in the bud and preventing complications from a full-blown infection.
Given the escalating epidemic of STIs, these draft recommendations advocating for the use of antibiotics, in essence, are a clarion call to arms—an urgent measure to counter a burgeoning health crisis.
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Doxycycline is a member of the tetracyclines family, which are broad-spectrum antibiotics known for their wide-ranging applications in treating various conditions.
It treats ailments from STIs and Lyme disease to even acne.
In the context of HIV, at-risk individuals are advised to consume antiviral medications within a 72-hour window after unprotected sex.
Seeing potential parallels, researchers tested a similar methodology with doxycycline to curb STIs.
Multiple clinical studies explored this avenue, including those in France and the U.S.
Findings from these studies indicated that a single dosage of doxycycline significantly reduced the bacterial infection rate, especially among MSM (men who have sex with men) and transgender women.
Notably, the antibiotic showed heightened effectiveness against chlamydia and syphilis compared to gonorrhea.
The CDC's latest recommendations take inspiration from the U.S.-based study, which predominantly centered on MSM and transgender women in Seattle and San Francisco.
This particular demographic, due to their frequent engagement in unprotected sex, was identified as being at an elevated risk for STIs.
The clinical studies provide a promising answer to this question. When administered as a postexposure prophylactic, doxycycline exhibited a commendable reduction in bacterial infection rates.
The research highlighted that a solitary dose could substantially diminish the infection rate among MSM and transgender women.
The results were particularly pronounced for chlamydia and syphilis.
For optimal benefits as a postexposure prophylactic against STIs, doxycycline should be taken within 72 hours following unprotected sexual activity.
This time frame aligns with practices observed in HIV prevention, where early intervention post-exposure has been proven critical.
However, it's essential to acknowledge a lurking concern with antibiotic recommendations: the threat of antibiotic resistance.
This phenomenon arises when bacteria evolve to resist the medications meant to eliminate them.
As with all antibiotics, adhering to recommended dosages and guidelines is crucial to mitigate the chances of resistance developing.
Antibiotic resistance stands as a formidable challenge in the realm of medical science.
With frequent use of antibiotics, bacteria get smart and figure out how to become resistant.
This adaptation by bacteria isn't just a theoretical concern but has real-world repercussions.
The CDC states that the U.S. witnesses over 2.8 million antimicrobial-resistant infections annually.
Such resistant infections can escalate the severity of diseases, leading to complications like organ failure, prolonged recovery durations, and, in severe cases, even death.
So, how does this resistance come into being?
In their quest for survival, germs develop mechanisms to fend off antibiotics and antifungals.
This natural defense is exacerbated when there's overreliance or misuse of these medications.
Given this understanding, it underscores the significance of exercising prudence in prescribing and using antibiotics—ensuring they're reserved for situations where they are genuinely indispensable.
While prescribing doxycycline for STI prevention might appear as a fitting utilization of antibiotics, concerns about triggering resistance linger.
These apprehensions were also voiced by experts at a convention of the National Association of County and City Health Officials.
The CDC, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has committed to vigilant monitoring concerning drug resistance.
While the proactive use of doxycycline showcases potential in STI prevention, it's essential to weigh it against the backdrop of potential risks.
This delicate balance emphasizes the need for continuous research, monitoring, and prudent decision-making.
One of the primary concerns, as voiced by researchers, pertains to its potential impact on the body's natural microbiome.
The human body is home to many beneficial bacteria, especially in regions like the gut and vagina.
This microbiome plays important roles in numerous health facets, ranging from proper gut function to even influencing mental health.
Introducing antibiotics like doxycycline might disrupt this delicate balance of bacterial species.
Any such perturbation can have repercussions on these intricate systems and may also pave the way for secondary infections.
In addition to these concerns about the microbiome, some direct side effects are associated with doxycycline consumption - nausea being the most prevalent.
Additionally, an increased susceptibility to sunburns has been noted among some individuals on the medication.
Given this, it's recommended for patients to be proactive and apply sunscreen when exposed to sunlight during their course of treatment.
It's crucial for users to be well-informed of the associated risks and take necessary precautions.
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Absolutely. Even if you have taken doxycycline as a preventative measure, it's crucial to maintain regular screenings for STIs.
When sexually active, it is important to undergo screenings every three to six months.
This proactive approach ensures early detection and treatment should there be an infection.
Moreover, it's essential to stay vigilant and monitor any potential symptoms of STIs.
Common indicators to watch out for include fever, any form of discharge, painful urination, and full-body rashes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's advisable to seek testing immediately rather than waiting for your next scheduled screening.
Any qualified medical health practitioner should be able to write you a prescription for doxycycline.
Most health plans cover this medication; even if you do not have coverage, you can get a strip of 20 tablets for around $24.
As of now, the CDC's draft recommendations specifically target men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women.
This delineation may lead some to ask about its efficacy in other groups, such as cisgender women and transgender men, who are equally susceptible to bacterial STIs.
This is because substantial research hasn't validated the effectiveness of doxy-PEP for these demographics.
A study involving 449 women in Kenya who were administered doxy-PEP post-sexual activity reported no significant reduction in the risk of acquiring STIs.
Additionally, there's a conspicuous lack of research on the impact of doxy-PEP on transgender men.
However, it's important to note that the Kenyan study might have been influenced by various factors.
There could have been elevated rates of doxycycline-resistant gonorrhea in the area, or perhaps the participants might not have consistently adhered to the prescribed medication regimen.
Nevertheless, researchers remain optimistic about the potential of doxy-PEP for a broader audience.
It's anticipated that after considering public feedback till November 16, the CDC will offer its definitive guidance on the subject, potentially providing more clarity on this pertinent question.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03980223
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/06/well/live/sti-syphilis-chlamydia-pill-doxycycline.html
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-10-cdc-aims-antibiotic-sex-sexually.html
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/morning-after-antibiotic-could-reduce-stis/
The Y chromosome has long stood as a challenging puzzle in the vast landscape of human genetics. Its unique structure and role in determining male characteristics have intrigued scientists for decades. Now, with the Y chromosome sequenced fully, we are on the brink of a new era in genomic research. Understanding the full sequence can revolutionize our grasp on human development, diseases, and much more. Let's explore why this milestone is a game-changer.
The Y chromosome is a sex chromosome in humans. It is the third smallest human chromosome.
Along with the X chromosome, it represents one of the 23 pairs of human chromosomes in each cell.
Every person usually has one pair of sex chromosomes in each cell.
Males have both the X and Y chromosomes, while females have a pair of X chromosomes.
The Y chromosome likely contains almost 200 genes that provide instructions for protein formation.
Since it is only found in males, the Y chromosome is vital in male sex determination and development.
The SRY gene in the Y chromosome is responsible for developing a fetus into a male.
Recent studies have shown that genes on the Y chromosome are associated with developing certain diseases.
Changes in the Y chromosome have been associated with the development of certain cancers in men.
Mosaic loss of the Y chromosome is a biomarker for developing certain diseases.
Studies have found that this loss is associated with the severity of diseases.
Loss of Y chromosomes in bone marrow is associated with abnormal growths or myeloid neoplasia.
Decreased expression of Y-linked genes was found in older patients who have Alzheimer's disease.
Loss of the Y chromosome is also associated with rare autoimmune diseases like autoimmune thyroiditis and primary biliary cirrhosis.
Y chromosome infertility is a condition where sperm production is impaired.
An affected man may produce fewer than normal sperms, sperms that are abnormally shaped or don't show proper movement.
This condition makes it difficult or impossible for a man to father children.
Mutations in the Y chromosome are usually the cause of this condition.
Certain areas of the Y chromosome called azoospermia factor (AZF) regions code for the proteins involved in sperm production.
Deletion of genes in this region affects sperm production and causes Y chromosome infertility.
This condition is usually not inherited and does not run in families.
It occurs due to new deletions in the Y chromosome of the affected individual.
Reduced chances of survival for Barret's adenocarcinoma were reported with complete or partial loss of the Y chromosome.
Loss of the Y chromosome in bladder cancer cells helped tumors evade the immune system.
Loss of the Y chromosome is 77% more commonly found in renal cell carcinoma.
The human Y chromosome was the only one yet to be fully sequenced.
A team of researchers funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute has finally fully sequenced the human Y chromosome.
The Y chromosome's genome has so far remained a mystery.
Unlike other chromosomes, the Y chromosome has a significantly high repetitive sequence.
Almost half of the chromosome comprises two alternative sequences known as satellite DNA.
Researchers have also closely studied the azoospermia region, a stretch of DNA on the chromosome that regulates sperm production.
The study also showed that humans can have between 10 to 40 copies of the TSPY gene on the Y chromosome.
The TSPY gene is involved in some production.
These findings pave the way for the future of genomic medicine.
Sequencing the Y chromosome has opened doors for many future discoveries.
Pangenome is a new term for genomics that combines genetic data received from people of different backgrounds and uses it to diagnose diseases and guide treatment options.
Researchers plan to now include complete sequences of the Y chromosome into individual genomes that comprise the pangenome.
It will help us understand how the Y chromosome varies in people from different parts of the world.
The Y chromosome is one of the smallest human chromosomes.
It is associated with sex determination in men.
However, the changes in the Y chromosomes are now associated with the development and severity of many diseases.
It is associated with Alzheimer's disease and many cancers.
Mutations in the Y chromosome can also cause infertility in men.
Scientists have now fully sequenced the Y chromosome.
It will pave the way for better diagnosing and treating many common Y-linked diseases.
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/y-chromosome-infertility/
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/y-chromosome-affects-cancer-growth#
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4908225/
