Genetic testing for a predisposition to osteoporosis
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone strength, changes in its structure and an increased risk of fractures. According to the World Health Organization, osteoporotic changes are detected in 15-20% of people over 50 years of age, and in 30%, this may cause fractures. The main criterion for assessing the high risk of osteoporosis development is osteodensitometry ― an X-ray method for determining the mineral density of bone tissue.
Calcium
Bone tissue is the most important source of calcium for maintaining its normal physiological level in the body. Where the “balance” is disturbed under the influence of a number of factors, including dietary habits, smoking, medication, hormonal disorders etc., the amount of resorbed (giving up calcium) bone tissue exceeds the amount of formed bone tissue, and the density of bone tissue decreases, which causes osteoporosis development.
Genetics at the core
Research has shown that bone mineral density is 60–85% dependent on the person’s genotype and the nature of such heredity is encoded in many genes.
What are we going to investigate?
Among the significant genes, polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) and in the COL1A1 gene of the collagen alpha-1(I) chain are studied. By way of linking the active form of vitamin D3 (calcitriol), the receptor molecule (VDR) triggers the activity of the most important components of body's calcium homeostasis. Type 1 collagen makes up to 90% of the bone matrix. Those with the 1546T risk allele have decreased bone mass and a risk of more frequent bone fractures. The LCT gene is also important in determining a predisposition to osteoporosis.
Genetic testing fees
- Testing of 7 genes predisposing to osteoporosis
- Professor’s conclusion
FAQs
Is special preparation required before providing test material?
No, it is not necessary. There is no need to follow a diet or perform any other special actions before providing material for testing. Taking medications, alcohol etc. will not affect genetic testing results either.
How soon will test results be ready?
Up to 35 working days from the date of signing an agreement. In fact, much sooner: 2-3 weeks.
What do I need to have with me to submit material for testing?
You should have your passport and money on you. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
What are your working hours?
Our working hours for clients with a booked appointment and providing test results.
On working days: Monday ‒ Thursday, from 9:00 till 17:30; on Fridays: from 9:00 till 16:30.
Days off: Saturday & Sunday.
What biological material is collected for testing and how?
For testing, buccal epithelium (epithelium of the inner part of your cheeks) is collected with a special cotton swab. It is done by a client himself or herself in the presence of a laboratory diagnostics doctor. Blood is not collected.
Can I send biological material for testing by post?
Yes, it is possible. Please follow the link for detailed instructions. The test results can be received in hard copy by mail to your home directly. Where DNA cannot be isolated from the sample provided, you will need to reimburse the cost of the reagents used.
Accreditation
The Certificate of Conformity to STB ISO 9001-2015 No. BY/112 05.01. 077.01 00132 valid till December 3, 2026
License
License of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus for the right to provide medical services of June 17, 2011, No. 02040/6875
Certificate
Certificate of the Reference Institute for Bioanalytics, Bonn, Germany (Referenzinstitut für Bioanalytik, Bonn, Deutschland) issued on April 3, 2021