What are allergies?
Allergies begin with sensitization. The first time your body meets a harmless substance, such as pollen, dust or a food protein, some immune systems produce a type of antibody called IgE against it. On later exposures, IgE on mast cells recognizes the substance and triggers the release of histamine and other messengers. The result can include sneezing, itching, hives or wheezing, depending on where the reaction happens.
How your genes play a role
Genes influence several steps. IL4, IL13 and GATA3 guide the type of immune response that favors IgE production. FCER1A encodes the receptor that holds IgE on mast cells. Barrier genes like FLG and SPINK5 help keep skin intact, which matters because a leakier skin barrier may make sensitization easier. IL33 and ORMDL3 are studied in relation to airway reactions.
Allergies are common, and they often appear differently across members of the same family. Knowing your genetic tendencies can help you understand why you might react more readily than others, and why skin care or airway comfort may deserve extra attention. It can be a calm, useful addition to conversations with your clinician or allergist about the patterns you notice through the seasons.
What your report shows
Your Allergies results are explained in plain language in your private EvoDNA account, alongside the other areas in your kit.
- Allergic signalingVariants in genes that may tilt the immune system toward allergy-type responses.
- Skin barrierGenes linked to how well your skin keeps irritants and allergens out.
- Mast cell triggersVariation in the receptor that connects IgE antibodies to allergic reactions.
- Airway tendenciesGenes that research has linked to sensitivity in the airways.
| Gene | What it does | Result |
|---|---|---|
| IL4 | Produces a messenger that encourages immune cells to make… | Typical |
| FCER1A | Encodes part of the receptor on mast cells that… | Moderate effect |
| FLG | Makes filaggrin, a protein that helps form a strong,… | Typical |
Each result comes with a plain-language explanation and practical points to discuss with your clinician.
Illustration only. Your report reflects your own genetic results.
Genes we analyze
| Gene | Role |
|---|---|
| IL4 | Produces a messenger that encourages immune cells to make IgE, the antibody behind allergic reactions. |
| FCER1A | Encodes part of the receptor on mast cells that binds IgE and triggers histamine release. |
| FLG | Makes filaggrin, a protein that helps form a strong, well-hydrated outer skin barrier. |
| GATA3 | Guides immune cells toward the response type typically involved in allergies. |
| IL33 | Produces an alarm signal released by barrier tissues that can activate allergy-related immune cells. |
Full panel: 14 genes
IL4, IL13, IL4RA, FCER1A, FCER1G, TLR2, TLR4, IL10, GATA3, SPINK5, FLG, CETP, IL33, ORMDL3
Putting results to use
Many people use their results as a starting point for conversations with their clinician about:
Gentle cleansing and regular moisturizing are often discussed for supporting the skin barrier.
Many people find that reducing dust and pollen indoors helps them feel more comfortable.
Noting when symptoms appear can help you and your clinician spot useful patterns.
An allergist can offer specific testing and personalized guidance when needed.
Questions
Can a DNA test tell me what I am allergic to?
No. Specific allergies are identified through clinical allergy testing and history. Your genetic report shows tendencies in the pathways involved.
Why is a skin gene in the allergy panel?
A healthy skin barrier helps keep allergens out. Variants in genes like FLG may weaken that barrier, which research links to a greater chance of sensitization.
Can allergies change over time?
Yes. Many people find that allergies appear, fade or shift across life. Genes are only one part of that story, alongside environment and exposure.
Only interested in this area? The Allergy Sensitivity Genetic Report is available on its own for $99.00.
