Genetic Impact on Nutrition Practice: Genotype-Phenotype Considerations in Establishing Clinical Nutrition Protocols

• Published in: Journal of the American Dietetic Association 1998-09, Vol.98 (9), p.A21-A21
• Main Authors: Carithers, T., Bock, H.G.O.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0002-8223; 1878-3570
• DOI: 10.1016/S0002-8223(98)00376-9

The importance of nutrition in health maintenance, disease prevention and treatment is well documented. The Human Genome Project and additional genetic research have confirmed that considerable genetic variability exists between individuals with the same disease. Even individuals with the same genotypes demonstrate clinical heterogeneity, because both environmental and genetic factors determine the clinical presentation, prognosis and course. Individualization of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is the recommended approach. An inborn error of metabolism model will demonstrate how genetic information may impact on dietetic practice. Data will be presented describing variability in biochemical tolerance of patients with galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase-deficient galactosemia. Correlations between molecular genotypes and phenotypes with biochemical tolerance will be presented. This model is used to elucidate implications for future clinical practice. Multi-factorial diseases such as diabetes, hyperlipidemias, osteoporosis, etc. which affect large populations may eventually require review of an individual's molecular studies prior to the provision of MNT. Future provision of MNT will require a greater understanding of basic genetic principles including molecular and biochemical concepts. Enhanced knowledge of genetics, will enable nutrition professionals to have an optimal impact on the health of patients, families and sub-populations they serve.