Cannabis Genetic Testing at Home: As simple as 1 2 3
Cannabis Genetic Testing at Home: As simple as 1 2 3
By: Asrinus Subha MSc. PMP
I’ve been an Analytical Chemist for over two years and a scientist for longer than that. Through my years in cannabis research-particularly before it was legalized in Canada, I lacked mindfulness to cannabis, thinking that this plant held one main chemical of interest that caused ‘psychoactive” response: delta9-THC. At the time we knew very little about the plant.
Today, I find this new territory inspiring.
Love the Cannabis Science
I now know that cannabis contains a cluster of unexplored compounds called cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids that may well transform how we view plants and its benefits to human biology. Fresh out of graduate school, this discovery came about after I got my first real job at a cannabis genomics company that was engaged in the commercial development of rare and novel cannabinoids, gender testing and understanding the plant biology. Talking with people in the company shifted my view of cannabis and it’s chemistry. The cannabis plant alone, opened up our eyes in all science fields: biology, chemistry, genetics, pharmacology, engineering, and beyond.
In this blog, it brings me joy to share some interesting idea on a recent trending topic in the cannabis world. Did you know, you could now pick a suitable cannabis strain based on your DNA? And no, YOU do not need to visit a lab for this.
The Genetics
Recently, a company called EndoCanna Health have started offering DNA test kits that can show your body’s genetics and can suggest a cannabis profile and products to better suit your needs. Although the kit costs $199, the way the technology works and the final result you get makes it totally worth it.
So how does this technology work? A kit is first delivered to you. All it requires is: 1) swab sample, placed into a tube and sealed in a plastic bag, 2) paid envelope is provided with the kit, which is used to be able to send off your swab sample to the lab, and 3) before sending it off, a registration of your test into the company’s HIPAA-compliant anonymous portal is required. This registration will then be used to view your profile once the lab has processed your swab sample and the results are ready. The report is often broken down into several components consisting of:
Anxiety
Cognitive function & behaviour
Digestive
Drug dependence
Drug Metabolism
Fitness
Metabolism
Mood
Musculoskeletal & immune
Pain, Nausea & Neurologic
Sleep
THC side effects
Each component is linked to the report specific to that condition. Clicking through the various reports shows how cannabinoids can interact with your genetic profile in certain ways. As an example, let’s say you have high anxiety: the report would suggest that your endocannabinoid system (ECS) is associated with a faster rate of fear memory extinction, which could be protective against conditions such as PTSD and phobias. It would then suggest a formulation that would consider the symptoms associated with anxiety relief – such as high-CBD ratio products and specific terpene profiles.
EndoCanna Health is a research lab as well, working on studies all over the world. The company is also looking into expanding the use of epigenetic data and using biomarkers, like Fitbit info, to create a dashboard that will further personalize your experience.
With your test results, you’re equipped to treat or alleviate certain conditions based on specific genotypes in your body. If you have a tendency to be anxious or stressful, you will know that there are certain cannabinoid and terpene profiles that can actually turn that genetic expression on or off.
Is the test worth it?
I spend my days working with a team of experienced wet lab and dry lab chemists, engineers, professors and other professionals — many with a Ph.D. or M.D — exploring the biology and physiology of cannabinoids and other bioactive compounds derived from cannabis and other plants. The potential for new and innovative medications and wellness products derived from cannabis could be huge. Promising applications include reducing or relieving pain, nausea, or even controlling seizures. Researchers are investigating myriad of other conditions that may respond well to cannabinoids and other compounds extracted from cannabis, from skin conditions to mental health issues.
Is the test worth it? Absolutely, always going beyond is what drives science. The way your nervous system and body react to cannabis is dependent on your genes. Understanding how your genes metabolize cannabis can help you achieve the optimal experience, minimize undesired side effects, and boost cannabis health benefits.
Disclaimer
Of course, although DNA kits are a great resource for both non-cannabis and cannabis users, regardless of genotype, you should seek professional consultation and/or treatment if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.