{"cache":{"posts_f30bc_3e6e2":{"__typename":"RootQueryToPostConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"Post","id":"cG9zdDoyNDMzNw==","categories_3cd3e_bf21a":{"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnection","edges":[{"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Category","id":"dGVybToxNTQx","slug":"health-traits","name":"Health + Traits","uri":"/category/health-traits","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"Health + Traits Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"Health + Traits Archives","metaDesc":"23andMe's Health + Ancestry Service gives you personalized genetic insights and tools that can help make it easier for you to take action on your health.","opengraphDescription":"23andMe's Health + Ancestry Service gives you personalized genetic insights and tools that can help make it easier for you to take action on your health.","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n"}}}]},"uri":"/articles/our-take-on-the-mthfr-gene","content_b28e9_bf21a":"

Editor’s Note: This post has been updated since it was first published in 2017.

The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene, more commonly known as MTHFR, is the most asked-about gene by 23andMe customers. $\"An$

Some websites and products have made bold claims that common genetic variants in MTHFR, or MTHFR genetic mutations, can cause a wide array of health conditions, ranging from blood clots and cancer to autism and migraines.
\n\n\n
\n\n\nSo we decided to dig deeper into the published scientific literature to evaluate the evidence.

Our conclusion?

Despite lots of research – and lots of buzz – the existing scientific data doesn’t support the vast majority of claims that common MTHFR variants impact human health. That being said, many other genetic variants can actually impact health. Check out our DNA Health + Ancestry test to learn more about how your DNA can affect your chances of developing certain health conditions.

What is the MTHFR gene?

\n\nHere’s what we know about MTHFR.
\n\n\n
\n\n\nThe MTHFR gene contains instructions for making an enzyme important for metabolizing folate (also called folic acid or vitamin B9). MTHFR also helps our cells recycle homocysteine, a chemical in the blood, into methionine, a building block for proteins.^[1]
\n\n\n
\n\n\nTwo common naturally occurring variants in the MTHFR gene are C677T and A1298C.

When the MTHFR gene has either of these two variants, the resulting MTHFR enzyme is slightly less active, which can lead to decreased levels of folate and increased levels of homocysteine in the blood.^[1]

Common misconceptions about MTHFR genetic mutations

\n\nSome websites have spread the idea that having one or two copies of an MTHFR variant can lead to dozens of adverse health consequences. Here are a few problems with this claim.

First, it’s unlikely that variants in a single gene could cause dozens of unrelated health problems. Second, the C677T and A1298C variants are prevalent: in some ethnicities, more than 50 percent of people have at least one copy of one of these variants. Most disease-causing genetic variants are not this common.*
\n\n\n
\n\n\nAnother claim about MTHFR is that people who carry an MTHFR variant should avoid foods fortified with folic acid. However, there’s no evidence that individuals with an MTHFR variant should reduce their folic acid intake.

\n\n

The scientific evidence: MTHFR gene testing is unnecessary

\n\nOver the past two decades, scientists have examined associations between the MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants and more than 600 medical conditions.^[2] Despite thousands of scientific publications, the evidence linking MTHFR to most of these health conditions is inconclusive or conflicting.

For example, some studies report an increased risk of heart disease for individuals with two copies of the C677T variant,^[3] while other studies report no association with heart disease.^[4]

The same is true for cancer,^[5]^[6] blood clots,^[7]^[8] and many other well studied health conditions.^[1]^[9]^[10]
\n\n\n

\n\nThe exception: women with two copies of the C677T variant appear to have slightly increased risk of having a child with a neural tube defect like spina bifida.^[11]^[12] Yet, according to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, as well as other countries’ nationwide health programs, folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of neural tube defects in all pregnant women, including women with an MTHFR variant.^[13]
\n\n\n

`\n\n`The takeaway

\n\nWe’re often asked, “Does 23andMe test for MTHFR mutations?”

The short answer is no. Although our genotyping chip does include more than a dozen variants in the MTHFR, we currently do not have an “MTHFR report.” That’s because, based on the existing data, scientists at 23andMe have concluded that people should not interpret their genotypes at the common MTHFR variants as having an effect on their health.

\n\nFor a connection between a genetic variant and a health condition to be considered accurate and clinically meaningful, well-run scientific studies need to show convincing and consistent evidence for that association. As statements from multiple scientific and medical organizations indicate,^[14] ^[15] that is currently not the case for the common MTHFR variants.

We will continue to monitor research in this area – as we do for a wide variety of genetic research – and evaluate new information as it becomes available.

Learn More

Find out if your genetics might Increase your risk for any health conditions with 23andMe.

_____________________________________________________________________
\n\n\n

`\n\n`*Note:

Some rare variants in MTHFR can cause a severe condition called homocystinuria, affecting fewer than 1 in 200,000 people in most ethnicities.^[16] These variants differ from the common ones described here and discussed throughout the 23andMe community and online.
\n\n\n
\n\n\n_____________________________________________________________________
\n\n\n

References:

\n

\n

[1]Levin BL et al. (2016). “MTHFR: Addressing Genetic Counseling Dilemmas Using Evidence-Based Literature.” J Genet Couns. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27130656

\n

\n

[2]Moll S et al. (2015). “Homocysteine and MTHFR Mutations.” Circulation. 132(1):e6-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26149435

\n

\n

[3]Klerk M et al. (2002). “MTHFR 677C–>T polymorphism and risk of coronary heart disease: a meta-analysis.” JAMA. 288(16):2023-31. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12387655

\n

\n

[4]Clarke R et al. (2012). “Homocysteine and coronary heart disease: meta-analysis of MTHFR case-control studies, avoiding publication bias.” PLoS Med. 9(2):e1001177. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22363213

\n

\n

[5]Kumar P et al. (2015). “Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene C677T polymorphism and breast cancer risk: Evidence for genetic susceptibility.” Meta Gene. 6:72-84. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26629412

\n

\n

[6]Teng Z et al. (2013). “The 677C>T () polymorphism in the MTHFR gene contributes to colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis based on 71 research studies.” PLoS One. 8(2):e55332. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23437053

\n

\n

[7]Den Heijer M et al. (2005). “Homocysteine, MTHFR and risk of venous thrombosis: a meta-analysis of published epidemiological studies.” J Thromb Haemost. 3(2):292-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15670035

\n

\n

[8]Gouveia LO et al. (2010). “MTHFR and the risk for cerebral venous thrombosis–a meta-analysis.” Thromb Res. 125(4):e153-8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19926119

\n

\n

[9]Pu D et al. (2013). “Association between MTHFR gene polymorphisms and the risk of autism spectrum disorders: a meta-analysis.” Autism Res. 6(5):384-92. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23653228

\n

\n

[10]Boccia S et al. (2008). “Meta- and pooled analyses of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T and A1298C polymorphisms and gastric cancer risk: a huge-GSEC review.” Am J Epidemiol. 167(5):505-16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18162478

\n

\n

[11]Yan L et al. (2012). “Association of the maternal MTHFR C677T polymorphism with susceptibility to neural tube defects in offsprings: evidence from 25 case-control studies.” PLoS One. 7(10):e41689. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23056169

\n

\n

[12]Yang Y et al. (2015). “Association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and neural tube defect risks: A comprehensive evaluation in three groups of NTD patients, mothers, and fathers.” Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol. 103(6):488-500. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25808073

\n

\n

[13]Crider KS et al. (2011). “Folic acid food fortification-its history, effect, concerns, and future directions.” Nutrients. 3(3):370-84. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22254102
\n

\n

\n

[14]Hickey SE et al. (2013). “ACMG Practice Guideline: lack of evidence for MTHFR polymorphism testing.” Genet Med. 15(2):153-6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23288205
\n

\n

\n

[15]American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Women’s Health Care Physicians. (2013). “ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 138: Inherited thrombophilias in pregnancy.” Obstet Gynecol. 122(3):706-17. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23963422
\n

\n

\n

[16]Genetics Home Reference. “Homocystinuria.” https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/homocystinuria

`\n\n`

Sources for Information

\n\n\nWebsites and blogs are filled with misinformation about MTHFR. When you’re looking for information about science and health, make sure you find trustworthy sources.

Here are a few of our favorite sites for information about genetics, health, and disease:

• Genetics Home Reference https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/

• GeneReviews https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1116/)

• Mayo Clinic (http://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-care-and-health-information)

\n\n\n• Centers for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov/)

• US National Library of Medicine (https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/)

• Disease-specific sites National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/), the American Heart Association (http://www.americanheart.org/), and the American Diabetes Association (http://www.diabetes.org/)

• Understanding Health Research (http://www.understandinghealthresearch.org/), a tool to help evaluate the quality of health studies.

\n","seo":{"__typename":"PostTypeSEO","title":"Our Take On MTHFR Gene Mutation Testing - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"Our Take On MTHFR Gene Mutation Testing","metaDesc":"23andMe looked at the science of the MTHFR gene. Learn about MTHFR genetics, health conditions associated with it, testing, and more.","opengraphDescription":"23andMe looked at the science of the MTHFR gene. Learn about MTHFR genetics, health conditions associated with it, testing, and more.","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n"},"title_b28e9_bf21a":"Our Take On MTHFR Gene Mutation Testing","date":"2023-01-05T06:00:00","imageOptions":{"__typename":"Post_Imageoptions","singleTemplateFeaturedImage":"default","featuredImageSquare":{"__typename":"MediaItem","id":"cG9zdDoyNDkzNg==","mediaDetails":{"__typename":"MediaDetails","sizes_cad4b_bf21a":[{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"thumbnail","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613-150x150.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613-271x271.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613-271x149.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613-281x204.jpg"}],"height":281,"width":281},"mediaItemUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613.jpg","sourceUrl_772ce_bf21a":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/MTHFR-image-with-border1-1-e1483740706613.jpg"}},"featuredImage":{"__typename":"NodeWithFeaturedImageToMediaItemConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"MediaItem","id":"cG9zdDoyNTExOQ==","altText":"","mediaDetails":{"__typename":"MediaDetails","width":600,"height":600,"sizes_cad4b_bf21a":[{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"thumbnail","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-150x150.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"medium","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-300x300.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-271x271.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-372x372.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-574x574.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-271x149.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-372x204.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-574x315.png"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_xl","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink-600x539.png"}]},"sourceUrl_772ce_bf21a":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink.png","mediaItemUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/dna_dot_variant_pink.png","title_b28e9_bf21a":"dna_dot_variant_pink"}},"tags_67cce_bf21a":{"__typename":"PostToTagConnection","edges":[{"__typename":"PostToTagConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Tag","id":"dGVybToyMDgx","name":"methylation","uri":"/tag/methylation","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"methylation Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"methylation Archives","metaDesc":"","opengraphDescription":"","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n"}}},{"__typename":"PostToTagConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Tag","id":"dGVybToxMjc0","name":"MTHFR","uri":"/tag/mthfr","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"MTHFR Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"MTHFR Archives","metaDesc":"","opengraphDescription":"The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene, more commonly known as MTHFR, is the most asked-about gene by 23andMe customers. Some websites have made bold claims that common genetic variants in MTHFR can cause a wide array of conditions. Our conclusion? Despite lots of research, the existing scientific data doesn’t support the vast majority of claims.","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n"}}}]},"databaseId":24337,"author":null,"slug":"our-take-on-the-mthfr-gene"},{"__typename":"Post","id":"cG9zdDoxOTE3Mg==","databaseId":19172,"featuredImage":{"__typename":"NodeWithFeaturedImageToMediaItemConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"MediaItem","id":"cG9zdDoxOTE3NQ==","altText":"","mediaDetails":{"__typename":"MediaDetails","width":2560,"height":2206,"sizes_cad4b_bf21a":[{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"thumbnail","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-150x150.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"medium","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-300x259.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"medium_large","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-768x662.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"large","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-1024x882.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"larger","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-880x758.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"largest","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-1180x1017.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-271x271.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-372x372.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-574x574.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_xl","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-980x980.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-271x149.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-372x204.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-574x315.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_xl","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-980x539.jpg"}]},"sourceUrl_772ce_bf21a":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-scaled.jpg","mediaItemUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-scaled.jpg","title_b28e9_bf21a":"exercise illustration"}},"author":null,"date":"2013-08-30T06:00:41","uri":"/articles/exercise-can-modify-dna-in-fat-cells","title_b28e9_bf21a":"Exercise Can Modify DNA in Fat Cells","slug":"exercise-can-modify-dna-in-fat-cells","imageOptions":{"__typename":"Post_Imageoptions","featuredImageSquare":{"__typename":"MediaItem","id":"cG9zdDoxOTE3NQ==","altText":"","mediaDetails":{"__typename":"MediaDetails","width":2560,"height":2206,"sizes_cad4b_bf21a":[{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"thumbnail","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-150x150.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"medium","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-300x259.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"medium_large","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-768x662.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"large","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-1024x882.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"larger","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-880x758.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"largest","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-1180x1017.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-271x271.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-372x372.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-574x574.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"square_xl","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-980x980.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_sm","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-271x149.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_md","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-372x204.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_lg","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-574x315.jpg"},{"__typename":"MediaSize","name":"wide_xl","sourceUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-980x539.jpg"}]},"sourceUrl_772ce_bf21a":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-scaled.jpg","mediaItemUrl":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/exercise-illustration-scaled.jpg","title_b28e9_bf21a":"exercise illustration"},"singleTemplateFeaturedImage":"none"},"categories_3cd3e_bf21a":{"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnection","edges":[{"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Category","id":"dGVybToxMzQ0","name":"Research","slug":"23andme-research","uri":"/category/23andme-research","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"Research Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"Research Archives","metaDesc":"23andMe research unique research model combines genetic and phenotypic information in what is among the largest databases of its kind.","opengraphDescription":"23andMe research unique research model combines genetic and phenotypic information in what is among the largest databases of its kind.","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n"}}}]},"content_b28e9_bf21a":"

$\"Outline$

By Sheel Dandekar

Not convinced that those trips to the gym are making a difference? Think again. In a recent study in PloS Genetics, researchers from Lund University in Sweden found that exercising can change how the DNA in fat cells works.

Fate

With the growing number of links found between genetics and health, it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that your genes determine your fate. That’s just not the case.

Genetics plays an important role in your health, but so do environmental influences. This includes lifestyle factors, which you have control over (e.g. eating junk food, smoking), and factors that may be difficult to control (e.g. the quality of healthcare you receive). To the extent to which we can dictate our environment, we have the power to change our risk for many common diseases

We frequently think about genetics and environment as two completely separate things — the classic nature vs. nurture debate. However, it turns out that genetics and environment can’t be neatly separated.

Epigenetic

A growing list of studies show that environmental factors can lead to lasting “epigenetic” changes, such as modification of the DNA base. To understand how this can happen, consider that your DNA is just a blueprint, a set of instructions for making the various things your body needs. Not all parts of the blueprint are actively being read in every cell. A complex system of switches controls which parts are being decoded, and which parts remain unread. Environmental factors can epigenetically modify DNA to determine whether or not those switches work. For instance, a famous study of children conceived during times of famine found that a chemical modification known as methylation can last for decades.

So do these epigenetic changes only happen in extreme environmental conditions, such as famine? The Lund study showed that simply exercising can change how the DNA in fat cells is read through the methylation of key genes.

They recruited 31 generally healthy but sedentary men and had them follow an exercise program for 6 months. The program consisted of 1 session of a 1 hour spinning class and 2 sessions of a 1 hour aerobics class each week. As one might expect, a number of clinical measurements (waist circumference, cholesterol, blood pressure) improved after 6 months of working out.

Metabolism

More surprisingly, when they compared the DNA from the men’s fat cells before and after the program, they found that significant portions of the DNA sequence had been methylated. In particular, a number of genes suspected to play a role in obesity and type 2 diabetes were modified, and the authors suggested that these modifications might drive differences in metabolism in fat cells.

In demonstrating that exercise can alter DNA methylation in fat cells, this study raises some interesting questions. Previous work has shown that exercise can lead to epigenetic changes in muscle cells. What other types of cells show epigenetic changes after exercise, and what exercises are best? Finally, how long do these epigenetic changes last?

Further research may help to answer these questions and maximize the benefits of exercise. For now, take solace in the fact that your genetic code is just one factor to consider in your overall health, and that many other factors remain under your control.

\n","seo":{"__typename":"PostTypeSEO","title":"Exercise Can Modify DNA in Fat Cells - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"Exercise Can Modify DNA in Fat Cells","metaDesc":"Researchers from Lund University in Sweden found that exercising can change how the DNA in fat cells works","opengraphDescription":"Researchers from Lund University in Sweden found that exercising can change how the DNA in fat cells works","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n"},"tags_67cce_bf21a":{"__typename":"PostToTagConnection","edges":[{"__typename":"PostToTagConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Tag","id":"dGVybToxNDQx","name":"exercise","uri":"/tag/exercise"}},{"__typename":"PostToTagConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Tag","id":"dGVybToyMDgx","name":"methylation","uri":"/tag/methylation","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"methylation Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"methylation Archives","metaDesc":"","opengraphDescription":"","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n"}}}]}}],"pageInfo":{"__typename":"RootQueryToPostConnectionPageInfo","hasNextPage":false,"endCursor":"YXJyYXljb25uZWN0aW9uOjE5MTcy"}},"tag_0a454_233c5":{"__typename":"Tag","id":"dGVybToyMDgx","name":"methylation","uri":"/tag/methylation","seo":{"__typename":"TaxonomySEO","title":"methylation Archives - 23andMe Blog","opengraphTitle":"methylation Archives","metaDesc":"","opengraphDescription":"","fullHead":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n"}},"generalSettings":{"__typename":"GeneralSettings","title":"23andMe Blog","description":"Welcome to The World of Genetics","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com"},"menuItems_8d665_c590f":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30431,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Shop","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30431,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"#","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"#","url":"#"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzMw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30433,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Ancestry + Traits Service","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30433,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":30431,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzNA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30434,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Health + Ancestry Service","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30434,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":30431,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjUxMg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32512,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"23andMe+ Premium™","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":32512,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":30431,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1MQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30451,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"23andMe+ Total Health™","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30451,"order":5,"parentDatabaseId":30431,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2OQ==","cssClasses":["menu-button"],"databaseId":30469,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Compare our services","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30469,"order":6,"parentDatabaseId":30431,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMQ==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzMg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30432,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Learn","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30432,"order":7,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"#","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"#","url":"#"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2MA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30460,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"How it works","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30460,"order":8,"parentDatabaseId":30432,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/howitworks/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/howitworks/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/howitworks/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDYzMA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30630,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Genetics Learning Hub","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30630,"order":9,"parentDatabaseId":30432,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32563,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"DNA & Personalized Healthcare","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":32563,"order":10,"parentDatabaseId":30432,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMDQzMg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-and-personalized-healthcare/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-and-personalized-healthcare/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-and-personalized-healthcare/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32562,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"About","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":32562,"order":11,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"#","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"#","url":"#"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30452,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Our Story","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30452,"order":12,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1Mw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30453,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Science","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30453,"order":13,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/genetic-science/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/genetic-science/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/genetic-science/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1NA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30454,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Privacy","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30454,"order":14,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy","url":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1NQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30455,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Research","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30455,"order":15,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/research/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/research/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/research/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1Ng==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30456,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Diversity, Equity & Inclusion","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":30456,"order":16,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjU2NQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32565,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Therapeutics","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":32565,"order":17,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/","url":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Ng==","name":"Primary Left"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjU2Ng==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32566,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Investors","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_LEFT"],"menuItemId":32566,"order":18,"parentDatabaseId":32562,"parentId":"cG9zdDozMjU2Mg==","path":"https://investors.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://investors.23andme.com/","url":"https://investors.23andme.com/"}]},"menuItems_8d665_f0bba":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Nw==","name":"Primary Right"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1Nw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30457,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Sign in","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_RIGHT"],"menuItemId":30457,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://you.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://you.23andme.com/","url":"https://you.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Nw==","name":"Primary Right"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1OA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30458,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Register Kit","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_RIGHT"],"menuItemId":30458,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/start/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/start/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/start/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Nw==","name":"Primary Right"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1OQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30459,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Help","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_RIGHT"],"menuItemId":30459,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/","url":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/"}]},"menuItems_8d665_58740":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3NQ==","name":"Primary Buttons"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3MA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30470,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Shop","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PRIMARY_BUTTONS"],"menuItemId":30470,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/"}]},"menuItems_8d665_5af00":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OA==","name":"Secondary"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ4Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30482,"description":"23andMe offers the most comprehensive genetic ancestry service on the market. See how your DNA connects you to people and places around the world.","isRestricted":false,"label":"Ancestry","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SECONDARY"],"menuItemId":30482,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/category/ancestry-reports","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/category/ancestry-reports","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/category/ancestry-reports"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OA==","name":"Secondary"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3MQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30471,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Health + Traits","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SECONDARY"],"menuItemId":30471,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/category/health-traits","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/category/health-traits","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/category/health-traits"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OA==","name":"Secondary"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30472,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"News","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SECONDARY"],"menuItemId":30472,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/category/news","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/category/news","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/category/news"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OA==","name":"Secondary"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ4MQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30481,"description":"The 23andMe’s innovative research model invites customer participation, and promises to accelerate the pace of genetic discovery and offer potential to find new treatments for disease.","isRestricted":false,"label":"Research","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SECONDARY"],"menuItemId":30481,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/category/23andme-research","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/category/23andme-research","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/category/23andme-research"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OA==","name":"Secondary"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDY4Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30682,"description":"The stories we hear from our customers inspire us every day. If you have a story to share about gaining new insights into your health, or finding a close relative, or making a personal discovery, we’d love to hear it.Tell Us Your Story","isRestricted":false,"label":"Stories","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SECONDARY"],"menuItemId":30682,"order":5,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/category/23andme-customer-stories","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/category/23andme-customer-stories","url":"https://blog-api.23andme.com/category/23andme-customer-stories"}]},"menuItems_8d665_6b50f":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OQ==","name":"Services"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2MQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30461,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Health + Ancestry","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SERVICES"],"menuItemId":30461,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OQ==","name":"Services"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30462,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Ancestry Service","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SERVICES"],"menuItemId":30462,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OQ==","name":"Services"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2Mw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30463,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"23andMe+ Premium™","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SERVICES"],"menuItemId":30463,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/membership/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OQ==","name":"Services"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjUxMA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32510,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"23andMe+ Total Health™","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SERVICES"],"menuItemId":32510,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/total-health/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3OQ==","name":"Services"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2NA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30464,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Gifts","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["SERVICES"],"menuItemId":30464,"order":5,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/gifts/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/gifts/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/gifts/"}]},"menuItems_8d665_647e3":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2NQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30465,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Investors","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30465,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://investors.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://investors.23andme.com/","url":"https://investors.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2Ng==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30466,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"About Us","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30466,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2Nw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30467,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Diversity, Equity & Inclusion","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30467,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ2OA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30468,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Media Center","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30468,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://mediacenter.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://mediacenter.23andme.com/","url":"https://mediacenter.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3NA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30474,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Blog","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30474,"order":5,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"/","url":"/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ4NA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30484,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Genetics Learning Hub","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30484,"order":6,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/topics/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3NQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30475,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Careers","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30475,"order":7,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/careers/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/careers/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/careers/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3Ng==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30476,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Refer a Friend","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30476,"order":8,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://refer.23andme.com/pub_footer_us","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://refer.23andme.com/pub_footer_us","url":"https://refer.23andme.com/pub_footer_us"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3Nw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30477,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Return Policy","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30477,"order":9,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907780","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907780","url":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907780"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3OA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30478,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Customer Care","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30478,"order":10,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/","url":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ3OQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30479,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"FSA/HSA Eligibility","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30479,"order":11,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/fsa-hsa/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/fsa-hsa/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/fsa-hsa/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mg==","name":"Company"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ4MA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30480,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Site Map","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["COMPANY"],"menuItemId":30480,"order":12,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/sitemap/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/sitemap/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/sitemap/"}]},"menuItems_8d665_21fc6":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzNQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30435,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Important Test Info","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30435,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/test-info/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/test-info/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/test-info/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzNg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30436,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Terms of Service","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30436,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/terms-of-service/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/terms-of-service/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/terms-of-service/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzNw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30437,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Privacy Statement","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30437,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/privacy/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/privacy/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/privacy/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzOA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30438,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Data Protection","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30438,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/gdpr/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/gdpr/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/gdpr/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQzOQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30439,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Family Considerations","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30439,"order":5,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907980","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907980","url":"https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/202907980"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0MA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30440,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Research Consent","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30440,"order":6,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/consent/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/consent/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/consent/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0MQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30441,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Individual Data Consent","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30441,"order":7,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/individual-data-consent/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/individual-data-consent/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/individual-data-consent/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30442,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Biobanking Consent","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30442,"order":8,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/biobanking/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/biobanking/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/biobanking/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0Mw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30443,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Cookie Policy","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30443,"order":9,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookies/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookies/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookies/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0NA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30444,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Cookie Choices","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30444,"order":10,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookie-choices/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookie-choices/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/about/cookie-choices/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0NQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30445,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Patent Information","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30445,"order":11,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/patents/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/patents/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/patents/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0Ng==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30446,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Report a Security Issue","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":30446,"order":12,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/security-report/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/security-report/","url":"https://www.23andme.com/security-report/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3Mw==","name":"Legal"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMjc2Mg==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":32762,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Consumer Health Data Privacy Policy","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["LEGAL"],"menuItemId":32762,"order":13,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy","url":"https://www.23andme.com/legal/us-privacy/#washington-consumer-health-data-privacy-policy"}]},"menuItems_8d665_39f6d":{"__typename":"RootQueryToMenuItemConnection","nodes":[{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3NA==","name":"Partner"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0Nw==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30447,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Medical Professionals","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PARTNER"],"menuItemId":30447,"order":1,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://medical.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://medical.23andme.com/","url":"https://medical.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3NA==","name":"Partner"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0OA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30448,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Education","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PARTNER"],"menuItemId":30448,"order":2,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://education.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://education.23andme.com/","url":"https://education.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3NA==","name":"Partner"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ0OQ==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30449,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Scientists","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PARTNER"],"menuItemId":30449,"order":3,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://research.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://research.23andme.com/","url":"https://research.23andme.com/"},{"__typename":"MenuItem","menu":{"__typename":"MenuItemToMenuConnectionEdge","node":{"__typename":"Menu","id":"dGVybToyMDA3NA==","name":"Partner"}},"id":"cG9zdDozMDQ1MA==","cssClasses":[],"databaseId":30450,"description":null,"isRestricted":false,"label":"Therapeutics","linkRelationship":null,"locations":["PARTNER"],"menuItemId":30450,"order":4,"parentDatabaseId":0,"parentId":null,"path":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/","target":null,"title":null,"uri":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/","url":"https://therapeutics.23andme.com/"}]}}}

methylation

Our Take On MTHFR Gene Mutation Testing

Exercise Can Modify DNA in Fat Cells

Stay in the know.