4 Ways Genetics Can Intensify Your Response to Toxic Mold

Toxic mold affects everyone in unique ways. One person may have debilitating fatigue and brain fog, while someone else may have skin rashes and anxiety. 

However, people with certain genetics can be hit by mold illness especially hard. Wondering if you’re one of them? This article will uncover four genes that can amplify your reaction to mold and offer a helpful resource to get your body on the path to healing. 

Mold & Your Genetics

There are a handful of ways your unique genes can play a role in your response to toxic mold:

HLA-DR Gene (Human Leukocyte Antigen – DR isotype)

There has been much focus on a certain gene that, if expressed, can hinder your ability to identify mycotoxins: the HLA-DR gene. If this gene is missing or poorly functioning, it can increase your sensitivity to mold and its biotoxins.

Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) is the protein the HLA-DR gene expresses and is found on most cells in your body. It sends alarm bells to your immune system to tag problematic cells. 

Without proper HLA production, mycotoxins can be stored in the body. And since mycotoxins are a lipophilic (fat-loving) compound, they have an affinity for the brain. The body can also begin to exhibit autoimmune behaviors with an HLA-DR issue. 

I never used this test myself because:

• It’s expensive

• I was clearly sick and knew I had mold in the home 

• We had other types of mold testing we were investing in at the time

No matter your genes, immunity is compromised by the presence of mycotoxins. A genetic issue will likely magnify your overall response, but you can get quite sick without an HLA-DR  genetic problem.

MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene 

Another genetic variant that can affect mold detox is the MTHFR gene. This gene converts folic acid to folate and assists in glutathione production. Glutathione is an important detox antioxidant for mold. 

COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) gene 

COMT is a gene that supports methylation, one of the processes in phase II liver detoxification that removes organic compounds called catechols. A slow-functioning COMT gene can also impair mold detox. 

GCLC (Glutamate-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit) gene

GCLC is a gene that supports glutathione production and an appropriate response to inflammation. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on this gene could impair your detox ability. 

Although it’s interesting to learn about genes, they are not the only factors at play in your health. They may influence how sick you become and how well, or poorly, you respond to different treatments. 

The combination of elements needed to repair the body will vary from person to person. It’s more important to focus on your actual symptoms and responses to treatment. 

Feeling Lost on Your Toxic Mold Journey? Join the Toxic Mold Masterclass

Wondering if mold is to blame for your chronic health issues? Whether you’re far into your mold recovery, or right at the start, help is here! Join me and over 20 other cutting-edge health experts for the upcoming Toxic Mold Masterclass, February 21-27th. 

Get answers to all your burning mold questions along with helpful resources, checklists, and step-by-step guides designed to help you recover your health. This potentially life-changing event is entirely FREE, so you’ve got nothing to lose! << Reserve your seat for the Toxic Mold Masterclass here. >>

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Bridgit Danner, LAc, FDNP, is trained in functional health coaching and has worked with thousands of women over her career since 2004. She is the founder of Women’s Wellness Collaborative llc and HormoneDetoxShop.com.

Check our her easy 5-Day DIY Detox Guide here!

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