Health Markers

3-Hydroxykynurenine (3-OH-kynurenine) is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, reflecting the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan. It acts as an intermediate compound in the conversion of tryptophan into key molecules, including the essential coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide).

5-Hydroxyindoleacetate (5-HIAA) is a measurement that reflects the breakdown of serotonin, an important neurotransmitter in the body. It is mainly used as a clinical marker, especially for detecting and monitoring carcinoid tumors that may produce excess 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 attack thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme vital for producing thyroid hormones. High levels of A-TPO antibodies are commonly linked to autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, which can result in either an underactive or overactive thyroid 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 key role in maintaining oncotic pressure, helping to keep fluid within blood vessels. It also binds and transports various substances in the blood, such as hormones, vitamins, and drugs. Produced by the liver, albumin levels in the blood serve as important indicators of liver function and nutritional status.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, particularly in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. ALP plays a key role in protein breakdown and dephosphorylation processes. In the liver, it is linked to bile ducts and is commonly used to assist in diagnosing liver and bone diseases. Elevated ALP levels may suggest bile duct obstruction or bone disorders, while low levels can be associated with certain genetic conditions 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 primarily found in the liver, where it aids 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 way to assess liver health, as elevated levels may indicate liver injury or disease, while normal levels usually reflect healthy 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 that aids digestion, produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. Its main role 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 beets 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 buildup, 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. Proper liver function ensures bilirubin is efficiently filtered from the blood and converted into a form that can be eliminated through 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 (Chol:HDL) ratio is a measure that reflects the balance between total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood. This ratio is used to assess heart disease risk, with a lower ratio indicating a healthier balance and a reduced risk. It is often considered a more accurate indicator of cardiovascular health than total cholesterol levels alone.

Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many vital body functions. It helps maintain the structure of cell membranes, supports the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine for muscle control, memory, and mood, and assists in fat metabolism and liver health. Choline is also important for brain development, neural tube formation during pregnancy, DNA synthesis, and healthy 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.

Creatine Kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, skeletal muscles, and other tissues. Elevated CK levels in the blood indicate muscle damage, as the enzyme is released when muscle cells are injured. There are different forms of CK, including CK-MM found in skeletal muscle, CK-MB mainly in the heart, and CK-BB typically in the brain. Measuring CK levels is valuable for diagnosing and monitoring muscle damage, such as that caused by a heart attack (myocardial infarction).

Creatinine is a compound produced through muscle metabolism and serves as a key indicator of kidney function. It is formed from creatine, a molecule essential for muscle energy production, and is filtered from the blood by the kidneys before being eliminated in 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 indicating the presence of antibodies against the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen (EBNA), a protein produced during the later stages of infection. The presence of EBNA IgG antibodies typically signifies a past infection, as these antibodies develop several weeks to months after the initial infection and usually remain detectable for life. Testing for EBNA IgG is often performed alongside VCA antibodies to distinguish between current and past infections and to assess the stage of the infection.

EBV VCA is a protein component of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) that appears early in the course of infection. Testing for VCA is a key 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 functions 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 present throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver. GGT plays a crucial role in glutathione metabolism, essential for antioxidant defense. It assists in transporting amino acids and peptides across cell membranes. Elevated GGT levels are commonly used as an indicator to detect liver damage, particularly bile duct obstructions and liver conditions associated with alcohol use.

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, which is an essential antioxidant, and is involved in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes. GOT is commonly measured through blood tests and serves 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 sulfur-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 linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and pregnancy complications. Imbalances may result from deficiencies in B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate), impaired methylation, or genetic variants such as 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 metabolizing the amino acid tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway. By depleting tryptophan, it can modulate immune responses, a mechanism that some tumors may use to evade immune detection. IDO is also linked to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders and is affected 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 case of Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, IgG antibodies are measured to assess past exposure or later stages of the infection. Unlike IgM antibodies, which appear early, IgG antibodies develop more slowly and can remain in the body for extended periods, providing lasting immunity.

IgM (Immunoglobulin M) is a type of antibody that acts as the body’s first line of defense against infections. It plays a crucial role in the immune system’s initial response by rapidly identifying and targeting invading pathogens. In diagnostic testing, IgM levels are measured to detect recent infections, such as Lyme disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. The presence of IgM antibodies in the blood usually indicates recent exposure or an active infection, providing vital information about the early stages of the immune response.

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 metabolizing 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 as a neuroprotective agent in the nervous system and is a focus of neurological and psychiatric research. Imbalances in kynurenic acid levels have been linked to disorders 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 various 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 enough oxygen, often during intense exercise. It is associated with muscle fatigue and the familiar “burn” feeling 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 lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. This buildup, 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 histamine levels 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 guide treatment plans.

Urinary leukocytes are white blood cells found in urine. They are usually absent or present in very small amounts, and elevated levels often indicate infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys. Detecting them is an important indicator for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other kidney-related conditions.

Malate, or malic acid, is a crucial compound involved in cellular metabolism, particularly within the Krebs cycle in the mitochondria. It plays a vital role in energy production by being converted into oxaloacetate, a process that produces NADH, which is then used to generate ATP, the cell’s primary energy currency.

Methylmalonic acid (MMA) is a substance produced in the body during the metabolism of certain fats and proteins. It is a byproduct of methionine breakdown and is influenced by vitamin B12 levels. Elevated MMA levels can indicate vitamin B12 deficiency.

Neopterin is a molecule produced by immune cells, especially macrophages, in response to stimulation by interferon-gamma. It serves as a marker of immune system activation and inflammation. Elevated neopterin levels in urine or blood can indicate increased immune activity, commonly seen in infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammatory conditions. Since it reflects the cellular immune response, neopterin is sometimes used to track 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 trace amounts in urine. Their presence can indicate a bacterial infection, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), because certain bacteria can convert urinary nitrite into nitrate. Nitrate testing is a common diagnostic tool for detecting UTIs.

Non-HDL cholesterol is a measure of all cholesterol types that can contribute to arterial plaque buildup, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), and other atherogenic lipid particles. It is calculated by subtracting HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or "good" cholesterol, from total cholesterol. Non-HDL cholesterol is considered a more comprehensive indicator of cardiovascular risk than LDL cholesterol alone, as it reflects all harmful cholesterol 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're not normally found in urine in significant amounts. The presence of protein in urine can be an indicator of 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. Measuring PSA levels in the blood helps screen for prostate health, as elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer. However, higher PSA can also result from non-cancerous conditions such as benign 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. It plays a central role in energy production by entering the citric acid cycle under oxygen-rich conditions. When oxygen levels are low, such as during intense exercise, pyruvate is converted into lactate to support continued ATP (energy) production. Additionally, pyruvate is involved in gluconeogenesis and serves as 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 that reflects the balance between two important compounds in the body — S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and S-Adenosylhomocysteine (SAH). SAMe acts as a key methyl donor in many biochemical processes, while SAH is produced after SAMe donates a methyl group. A higher SAMe/SAH ratio indicates a strong methylation capacity, which supports healthy cellular function and overall well-being.

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 suberic acid levels can indicate metabolic disorders, especially 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 the body’s cells and is essential for producing hormones, vitamin D, and digestive substances. While the body produces all the cholesterol it needs, it is also found 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 the 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. Normally, TMA is quickly 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 reduced liver detoxification capacity. High TMA is also linked to trimethylaminuria, a rare metabolic disorder that causes a strong body odor. Monitoring TMA offers insights 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 like choline, L-carnitine, and phosphatidylcholine. Elevated levels of TMAO have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney dysfunction, and inflammation. TMAO serves as a valuable marker for assessing metabolic health and the impact of gut microbiota on systemic disease risk. Lifestyle and diet, especially red meat and eggs, can significantly influence 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 from the breakdown of proteins. Once formed, it is transported to the kidneys and ultimately expelled in the urine. Measuring urea levels in the blood, often referred to as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), is a common test used to assess kidney function. Elevated blood urea levels may indicate impaired kidney function or other problems affecting waste processing and elimination.

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

Urobilinogen in urine is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, formed in the intestines from bilirubin and excreted in the urine. It is normally present in low concentrations and serves 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 usually 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....