Health Markers

3-Hydroxykynurenine (3-OH-kynurenine) is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is an intermediate product formed during the conversion of tryptophan to other compounds, including the essential coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)....

5-Hydroxyindoleacetate (5-HIAA) is a measurement that reflects the breakdown of serotonin, a key neurotransmitter in the body. It is primarily used as a clinical marker, especially for detecting and monitoring carcinoid tumours that may overproduce serotonin. Urinary 5-HIAA levels can also serve as an approximate indicator of the body’s overall serotonin levels.

Anti-Thyroglobulin (A-TG) antibodies are immune system proteins that attack thyroglobulin, a key protein in the thyroid gland essential for producing thyroid hormones. Elevated A-TG levels can be a sign of autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. These disorders can lead to various symptoms, impacting thyroid function and overall health. Monitoring A-TG levels is crucial in diagnosing and managing these thyroid conditions....

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (A-TPO) antibodies are immune proteins that mistakenly target thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme essential for producing thyroid hormones. Elevated levels of A-TPO antibodies are often linked to autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, which can result in either an underactive or overactive thyroid function and impact overall health.

Adipate, or adipic acid, is a component in lipid metabolism and a biomarker for certain metabolic dysfunctions, particularly those affecting fatty acid oxidation. This abnormal presence, often found in urine or blood tests, can help diagnose and monitor metabolic conditions....

Albumin is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma and plays a critical role in maintaining oncotic pressure, which helps keep fluid within the blood vessels. It also binds and transports various substances in the blood, including hormones, vitamins, and drugs. Albumin is produced in the liver, and its levels in the blood are a key indicator of liver function and nutritional status....

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. ALP plays a crucial role in breaking down proteins in the body and is involved in processes like dephosphorylation. In the liver, ALP is linked to the bile ducts and is useful in diagnosing liver and bone diseases. Elevated levels can indicate bile duct obstruction or bone diseases, while low levels can be seen in certain genetic disorders and malnutrition....

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is a key compound in the Krebs cycle, an essential metabolic pathway for energy production in cells. It plays a crucial role in converting nutrients into energy, amino acid metabolism, and nitrogen transport. Additionally, Alpha-ketoglutarate is involved in various cellular processes, including signaling and regulation....

ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): ALT is an enzyme predominantly found in the liver, where it assists in protein metabolism. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream, causing its levels to rise. Measuring ALT is a common method to assess liver health, as elevated levels may indicate liver injury or disease, while normal levels generally signify normal liver function.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), formerly known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme primarily found in the liver. It plays a vital role in metabolizing proteins and is crucial for various metabolic processes. ALT levels in the blood are indicative of liver health, as the enzyme is released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or inflamed....

Amylase is an enzyme involved in digestion, produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. Its primary function is to break down complex carbohydrates — such as starches and glycogen — into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose, which the body can easily absorb.

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a ketone body produced by the liver from fatty acids during periods of low food intake, fasting, intense exercise, or a low-carbohydrate diet. It serves as an alternative energy source, especially for the brain, when glucose is scarce. BHB is a key indicator of ketosis, a metabolic state achieved through ketogenic diets or fasting....

Betaine is a compound found in foods such as beetroot and spinach. It plays key roles in the body by acting as a methyl donor in methylation processes, helping regulate cellular fluid balance, supporting liver health by preventing fat accumulation, and lowering homocysteine levels, which contributes to cardiovascular health.

Bilirubin is a yellow compound that results from the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. It is transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted into the bile. Healthy liver function ensures bilirubin is efficiently filtered from the blood and converted into a form that can be eliminated via the digestive system. Blood bilirubin levels are an important indicator of liver health, bile duct function, and red blood cell turnover.

Blood in urine, medically known as hematuria, refers to the presence of red blood cells in the urine. It can be visible, changing the urine's color to pink, red, or cola-like, or microscopic, detectable only through a urine test. Hematuria can indicate various underlying conditions ranging from benign to serious....

Carnitine is a compound crucial for energy production, synthesized in the liver and kidneys. It transports long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for oxidation and energy release, and also helps remove waste products from cells. Found mainly in animal products, carnitine is generally produced in sufficient amounts by the body....

The cholesterol-to-HDL ratio, often abbreviated as Chol:HDL ratio, is a calculation derived from dividing your total cholesterol number by your HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol number. This ratio is used to assess the risk of developing heart disease. A lower ratio indicates a lower risk of heart disease, as it suggests a higher proportion of "good" cholesterol (HDL) relative to the total cholesterol level. This ratio is considered by some health professionals as a more precise indicator of heart disease risk compared to total cholesterol levels alone....

Choline is an essential nutrient crucial for several bodily functions. It forms part of cell membranes, aids in the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (important for muscle control, memory, and mood), supports fat metabolism and liver health, and is vital for brain development and neural tube formation during pregnancy. Additionally, choline plays a role in DNA synthesis, essential for growth and overall nervous system function....

Cis-aconitate is an intermediate in the Krebs cycle, a key metabolic pathway involved in energy production in cells. It forms during the conversion of citrate to isocitrate, facilitated by the enzyme aconitase. This cycle is crucial for oxidizing nutrients to generate ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. Additionally, the Krebs cycle, including the cis-aconitate step, provides important precursors for biosynthetic pathways like amino acid, nucleotide, and fatty acid synthesis....

Citramalate, or citramalic acid, is a metabolic byproduct and a urinary marker that can indicate bacterial dysbiosis or overgrowth. Its presence can also be indicative of potential metabolic disturbances....

Citrate is a compound that plays a key role in the citric acid cycle, essential for energy production in aerobic organisms. It helps break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to produce ATP (energy). Citrate also supports the regulation of the body’s acid-base balance and contributes to kidney stone prevention by binding with calcium.

CK, or Creatine Kinase, is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, skeletal muscle, and other tissues. Elevated levels of CK in the blood can indicate muscle damage, as this enzyme leaks out of damaged muscle cells. There are different types of CK, including CK-MM found in skeletal muscle, CK-MB primarily in the heart, and CK-BB typically in the brain. Measuring CK levels is useful for diagnosing and monitoring muscle damage, including damage from myocardial infarction (heart attack)....

Creatinine is a compound produced through muscle metabolism and is an important indicator of kidney function. It is derived from creatine, a molecule vital for energy production in muscles, and is filtered from the blood by the kidneys before being excreted in the urine.

Cystathionine is a non-protein amino acid, an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine, two essential amino acids. It is a key compound in the transsulfuration pathway, where homocysteine is converted into cystathionine by the enzyme cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and then cystathionine is further converted into cysteine by the enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE)....

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (A-TPO) antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that target thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme essential for thyroid hormone production. Elevated levels of A-TPO antibodies may indicate autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease, which can disrupt thyroid function and affect overall health.

EBNA IgG is a marker that reflects the presence of antibodies against the EBV (Epstein-Barr virus) nuclear antigen (EBNA), a protein produced during the later stages of infection. The presence of EBNA IgG antibodies generally indicates a past infection, as these antibodies develop several weeks to months after the initial infection and typically remain detectable for life. Testing for EBNA IgG is often used alongside VCA antibodies to differentiate between a current and past infection and to assess the stage of the infection.

EBV VCA is a protein component of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) that appears early during infection. Testing for VCA is an important marker for diagnosing both acute and chronic EBV infections.

eGFR, or Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, is a test that estimates the rate at which the kidneys filter waste from the blood. It is calculated based on serum creatinine levels, age, body size, and gender. eGFR is a crucial indicator of kidney function, helping to assess whether the kidneys are working effectively. A lower eGFR indicates poorer kidney function, which can signify kidney disease or damage....

Ethyl malonate (EM) is a compound that acts as a biomarker for certain metabolic disorders. Elevated levels of ethyl malonate in the body may indicate inherited metabolic conditions, such as ethylmalonic encephalopathy, or disruptions in fatty acid oxidation.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in many organs throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver. GGT plays a key role in the metabolism of glutathione, an important antioxidant. It's involved in the transfer of amino acids and peptides across cellular membranes and in glutathione metabolism. Elevated GGT levels are commonly used as a marker for liver damage, particularly in detecting bile duct obstructions and liver diseases related to alcohol consumption....

Globulin is a group of proteins in the blood that play various roles, including transporting hormones, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. They are also crucial components of the immune system, with certain globulins acting as antibodies that help fight infections. Globulins are synthesized in the liver and immune system, and their levels can indicate the status of immune response, liver function, and nutritional health....

Glucose, a simple sugar, is the primary source of energy for the body's cells. It plays a crucial role in metabolic processes and is critical for brain function, muscle activity, and overall energy. In the bloodstream, the level of glucose (commonly referred to as blood sugar) is tightly regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon. Imbalances in glucose levels can lead to conditions like diabetes mellitus, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia, affecting overall health and requiring medical management to maintain glucose at healthy levels....

GOT, or Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), is an enzyme present in various tissues throughout the body, with the highest concentrations found in the liver. It plays a crucial role in glutathione metabolism, a vital antioxidant, and is involved in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes. GOT is commonly measured in blood tests and acts as an important indicator of liver and biliary tract function.

HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin, is a form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to glucose. It provides a picture of average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the previous two to three months, making it a crucial test for managing diabetes. Higher levels of HbA1c indicate poor blood sugar control, which can be due to diabetes or other factors affecting glucose metabolism. Regular monitoring of HbA1c helps in adjusting medications or lifestyle changes to better manage blood sugar levels....

HDL, or High-Density Lipoprotein, is known as "good" cholesterol. It plays a crucial role in heart health by transporting cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver, which then removes the cholesterol from your body. High levels of HDL cholesterol can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke, as it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream....

Homocysteine is a sulphur-containing amino acid produced during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid. It plays a key role in methylation, detoxification, and cardiovascular function. Elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and pregnancy complications. Imbalances may be caused by deficiencies in B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate), impaired methylation, or genetic variants like MTHFR. Monitoring homocysteine levels can provide valuable insights into cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic health.

Homovanillic acid (HVA) is a metabolite resulting from the breakdown of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter. It serves as an important marker for assessing dopamine activity in the body. Changes in HVA levels can indicate alterations in dopamine function, and they are also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments that affect dopamine metabolism....

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a blood test that detects lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body. Unlike standard CRP tests, hs-CRP can identify minor inflammation levels, making it particularly useful in assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Elevated hs-CRP levels might indicate an increased risk of heart disease, even in the absence of other risk factors. Therefore, it's often used alongside other cardiac risk assessments to provide a more comprehensive picture of an individual's heart health....

Hydroxymethylglutarate (HMG), particularly in its form as β-hydroxy β-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA), is crucial in human physiology, serving two primary functions. First, it is a key intermediate in cholesterol synthesis, essential for the formation of cell membranes, steroid hormones, and bile acids. Second, in the liver, HMG-CoA is involved in the production of ketone bodies during periods of fasting, carbohydrate-restricted diets, or intense exercise, providing an alternative energy source when glucose is low....

IDO (Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase) is an enzyme involved in metabolising the amino acid tryptophan via the kynurenine pathway. By depleting tryptophan, it can modulate immune responses, a mechanism that some tumours may use to evade immune detection. IDO is also implicated in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders and is influenced by inflammation and stress.

IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is a type of antibody that indicates the body’s long-term immune response. It is the most abundant antibody in the blood and plays a crucial role in protecting against infections. In the context of Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, IgG antibodies are measured to assess past exposure or later stages of infection. Unlike IgM antibodies, which appear early on, IgG antibodies develop more slowly and can remain in the body for prolonged periods, providing lasting immunity.

IgM (Immunoglobulin M) is a type of antibody that is produced by the body as a first response to infections, making it a crucial component of the immune system's initial defense mechanism. In the context of testing, IgM antibodies are often measured to diagnose recent infections, including Lyme disease caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium. The presence of IgM antibodies against specific pathogens in the blood can indicate a recent exposure to or infection by that pathogen. Due to their rapid response and short lifespan in the circulation, IgM levels can provide valuable information about early stages of infections....

Isocitrate is a crucial compound in the Krebs cycle, a key metabolic pathway for energy production in cells. It is formed from citrate and then converted to α-ketoglutarate, a process that generates NADH for ATP production. Isocitrate plays a role in linking various metabolic processes, including the synthesis of amino acids, nucleotides, and fatty acids....

Ketones are substances produced when the body breaks down fats for energy, a process that occurs when carbohydrate intake is low, such as during fasting or following a ketogenic diet. This metabolic state is known as ketosis. Ketones are primarily produced in the liver and include beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone. While ketones serve as an alternative energy source, especially for the brain, elevated levels can indicate problems such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in individuals with diabetes, which is a potentially life-threatening condition....

KMO (Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase) is an enzyme that plays a key role in the kynurenine pathway, responsible for metabolising the amino acid tryptophan. It helps regulate the balance of metabolites within this pathway, influencing processes that can affect brain health. KMO activity has been linked to neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and schizophrenia.

Kynurenic acid is a metabolite produced in the kynurenine pathway during the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan. It acts in the nervous system as a neuroprotective agent and is of interest in neurological and psychiatric research. Imbalances in kynurenic acid levels have been linked to conditions such as schizophrenia and depression.

Kynurenine is a key metabolite in the breakdown of the essential amino acid tryptophan. It serves as a precursor to several important compounds, including the neuroprotective kynurenic acid and the neurotoxic quinolinic acid, and plays a crucial role in a variety of physiological and pathological processes in the body.

Lactate, also known as lactic acid, is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism — the process of breaking down glucose for energy without adequate oxygen, often during intense exercise. It is associated with muscle fatigue and the familiar “burn” sensation experienced during strenuous activity. Lactate also plays a role in the Cori cycle, where it is converted back into glucose in the liver.

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) is a type of cholesterol often called “bad” cholesterol. It transports cholesterol particles through the bloodstream, and elevated levels can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. This accumulation, known as atherosclerosis, can narrow and harden the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The measurement of histamine in stool is a diagnostic test used to evaluate gastrointestinal conditions. Histamine is a compound involved in immune responses and inflammation. Elevated levels of histamine in stool may indicate allergic reactions, infections, or disorders affecting the gut’s immune system. Monitoring histamine in stool can help assess digestive health and inform treatment strategies.

Urinary leukocytes are white blood cells present in urine. They are usually absent or found in very small quantities, and elevated levels often indicate infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys. Their detection is a key marker for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other kidney-related disorders.

Malate, or malic acid, is a crucial compound in cellular metabolism, particularly in the Krebs cycle, which occurs in the mitochondria. It plays a key role in energy production by being converted to oxaloacetate, a process that generates NADH, subsequently used to produce ATP, the cell's energy currency....

Methylmalonic acid (MMA) is a substance produced in the body during the metabolism of certain fats and proteins. It is a by-product of methionine breakdown and is influenced by vitamin B12 levels. Elevated MMA levels can serve as an indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Neopterin is a molecule produced by immune cells, particularly macrophages, in response to stimulation by interferon-gamma. It is regarded as a marker of immune system activation and inflammation. Elevated levels of neopterin in urine or blood can indicate increased immune activity, commonly observed in infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic inflammatory conditions. As it reflects the cellular immune response, neopterin is sometimes used to monitor disease progression or the status of the immune system.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), is a crucial coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a vital role in cellular metabolism, particularly in redox reactions, where it alternates between NAD+ (oxidized form) and NADH (reduced form). Beyond its role in energy metabolism, NAD+ is also involved in cell signaling, DNA repair, and regulation of gene expression. The maintenance of NAD+ levels is important for cellular health and function, and its depletion is linked to aging and various diseases....

Urinary nitrates are chemical compounds usually absent or present only in small quantities in urine. Their presence can indicate a bacterial infection, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), as certain bacteria can convert urinary nitrite into nitrate. Nitrate testing is a common diagnostic method for detecting UTIs.

Non-HDL cholesterol is a measure of all the harmful types of cholesterol, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), and other lipid particles that contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. It is calculated by subtracting your HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or "good" cholesterol level from your total cholesterol number. Non-HDL cholesterol is considered a more comprehensive indicator of heart disease risk than LDL cholesterol alone, as it includes all the atherogenic particles.

Urinary protein, also known as proteinuria, refers to the presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine. Proteins, such as albumin, are vital components of blood, but they are not normally found in urine in significant amounts. The presence of protein in urine can indicate kidney damage or disease, as healthy kidneys typically prevent significant protein loss through urine.

PSA, or Prostate-Specific Antigen, is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and its levels in the blood can be measured to screen for prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer but can also be caused by benign conditions like prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis....

PSA, or Prostate-Specific Antigen, is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and its levels in the blood can be measured to screen for prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels can indicate prostate cancer but can also be caused by benign conditions like prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis....

The PSA ratio, or free-to-total PSA ratio, is calculated by dividing the level of free PSA (not bound to proteins) by the total PSA (free plus protein-bound PSA) in the blood, and then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage. This ratio helps differentiate between benign and malign prostatic conditions, especially in men with moderately elevated total PSA levels....

Pyruvate is a key compound in cellular metabolism, formed as the end product of glycolysis when glucose is broken down. In the presence of oxygen, it contributes to energy production by entering the citric acid cycle. Under low oxygen conditions, such as during intense exercise, pyruvate is converted into lactate, allowing continued ATP (energy) production. Pyruvate also plays a role in gluconeogenesis, the process of generating glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, and is a precursor for amino acid synthesis....

Quinolinic acid is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is known for its role as an excitotoxin in the central nervous system. High levels of quinolinic acid have been associated with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and some forms of epilepsy, as well as in certain psychiatric disorders like depression....

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a compound naturally occurring in all cells, formed from methionine and ATP. It's crucial for methylation processes, neurotransmitter synthesis (affecting mood), joint health, and liver function. SAMe is used as a supplement for conditions like depression, osteoarthritis, and liver diseases....

The SAMe/SAH ratio is a measure of the balance between S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and S-Adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in the body, reflecting cellular methylation capacity. SAMe is a crucial methyl donor for various biochemical processes, while SAH is a byproduct formed after SAMe donates a methyl group. A high SAMe/SAH ratio indicates good methylation capacity, beneficial for cellular functions and overall health....

Suberic acid, also known as octanedioic acid, is a dicarboxylic acid that functions as a metabolic marker in the body. In biological and physiological contexts, it is primarily linked to fatty acid metabolism. Elevated levels of suberic acid may indicate metabolic disorders, particularly those involving fatty acid oxidation, such as medium-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency.

Succinate is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, essential for energy production in cells. It helps convert nutrients into ATP, the cell's main energy source. Beyond its role in the Krebs cycle, succinate serves as a metabolic link in processes like amino acid and fatty acid synthesis. It also acts as a signaling molecule, influencing inflammation and response to low oxygen conditions....

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body and is essential for producing hormones, vitamin D, and digestive substances. While the body produces all the cholesterol it needs, it is also present in animal-based foods such as meat and dairy. There are two main types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, which can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol, which helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) is a blood test that measures the ability of transferrin, a protein in the blood, to carry iron. TIBC is an indirect way of determining how much transferrin in the blood is available to bind to iron. Transferrin is the main protein in the blood that binds to iron and transports it throughout the body. TIBC is often used alongside other iron tests to diagnose anemia or iron overload disorders....

Total protein refers to the combined amount of albumin and globulin in the blood. Albumin, the most abundant protein in blood plasma, maintains oncotic pressure and transports various substances. Globulins are involved in immune response, blood clotting, and other functions. Total protein levels are a key indicator of nutritional status and liver and kidney health....

Transferrin saturation is a blood test that measures the percentage of transferrin, a blood protein that binds to iron, which is actually bound to iron. It is a useful indicator of the availability and usage of iron within the body. This test helps in assessing iron deficiency or iron overload. Transferrin saturation is calculated using serum iron and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) or transferrin measurements. A low transferrin saturation may indicate iron deficiency, while a high saturation may suggest iron overload conditions like hemochromatosis....

Transglutaminase IgG (tTG-IgG) is a specific antibody test used in the diagnosis of celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. This test measures the IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, an enzyme found in the intestinal lining. Unlike the more common Transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA) test, the tTG-IgG is typically used when a patient has a deficiency in IgA or when IgA test results are ambiguous. It helps in identifying gluten intolerance by indicating an immune response that occurs when a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, leading to an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine....

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. When you eat, your body converts any calories it doesn't need to use right away into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals. A high triglyceride level combined with high LDL (bad) cholesterol or low HDL (good) cholesterol is associated with atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits in artery walls, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke....

Trimethylamine (TMA) is a volatile organic compound produced in the gut through bacterial fermentation of dietary nutrients such as choline, L-carnitine, and lecithin. Typically, TMA is rapidly converted in the liver to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which is less toxic. However, elevated TMA levels can indicate imbalances in the gut microbiome or impaired liver detoxification capacity. High TMA is also linked to trimethylaminuria, a rare metabolic disorder that causes a strong body odour. Monitoring TMA provides insight into gut microbial activity, protein metabolism, and liver function.

Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a compound produced in the liver from trimethylamine (TMA), which is generated by gut bacteria during the digestion of nutrients such as choline, L-carnitine, and phosphatidylcholine. Elevated levels of TMAO have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney dysfunction, and inflammation. TMAO serves as a valuable marker for assessing metabolic health and the influence of gut microbiota on systemic disease risk. Lifestyle and diet, particularly red meat and eggs, can significantly affect TMAO levels. Monitoring TMAO may help identify hidden risks even when other conventional markers appear normal.

Urea is a waste product produced in the liver through the breakdown of proteins. Once formed, it is transported to the kidneys and ultimately expelled in the urine. Measuring urea levels in the blood, commonly referred to as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), is a routine test used to assess kidney function. Raised blood urea levels may indicate impaired kidney function or other problems affecting waste processing and elimination.

Urine density, also known as urine specific gravity, is a measurement of the concentration of solutes in the urine. It indicates the kidney’s ability to concentrate or dilute urine and acts as a marker of hydration status and kidney function. Although normal values may vary, abnormalities can suggest dehydration, overhydration, or underlying kidney conditions.

Urobilinogen in urine is a by-product of red blood cell breakdown, formed in the intestines from bilirubin and excreted in the urine. It is normally present in low concentrations and acts as an indicator of liver function and health. Abnormally high or low levels may suggest liver disease or blood-related conditions.

Vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) is a metabolite produced from the breakdown of catecholamines such as adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine. It is used as a clinical marker to evaluate catecholamine activity, with levels typically measured in urine. Various factors, including certain foods and medications, can affect VMA levels.

Xanthurenate is a metabolite produced from the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan via the kynurenine pathway. Elevated levels of xanthurenate can indicate a deficiency in vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), as this vitamin is a necessary cofactor in the pathway....