Telomere Length Test-Cell Science Systems Kit:
Note: This is a test kit that will be mailed to you. It requires a blood draw. It is your responsibility to arrange the blood draw for your kit and payment of your specimen collection.
Fasting Required: No
Lab: Cell Science Systems
Specimen: Blood
Results: Average processing time 10-12 business days
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Medication and Supplement Instructions for CSS Testing:
- Testing does not need to be delayed because of medication or supplement use.
- Medications that are part of your daily routine should be continued as they are considered part of your normal physiological state.
- If possible, please avoid taking any oral medications, IV infusions, intramuscular (IM) injections, or oral supplements for 4 hours before blood draw.
- If you are taking medications that may impact white blood cell counts, it is recommended to collect an additional blood tube at the time of your draw.
- For short term medications (such as antibiotics) that will be discontinued, it is best to wait at least 2 weeks after completing the medication before completing your blood draw.
- If you are taking methylene blue, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours after your last dose before proceeding with your blood draw for the Cellular Nutrition Assay.
- Fasting is not necessary
Description: According to scientific research, telomere shortening may contribute to aging and age-related conditions. Telomeres are segments of DNA found at the ends of chromosomes. They can be prematurely shortened when exposed to environmental chemicals, oxidation, inflammation, and stress. This leads to DNA damage and contributes to early cell death.
Shorter telomeres have been associated with cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cognitive decline, and other chronic degenerative conditions associated with aging.
Inflammation is associated with aging and telomere shortening. Telomeres become shorter after each cell division until eventually chromosomal DNA reaches a critical point at which the cell can no longer divide (known as the Hayflick limit). The loss of this protective telomere “armor” renders DNA vulnerable to damage and may result in an individual’s increased risk for accelerated aging and associated health conditions. If telomeres are maintained, then termination of cell division (senescence) and programmed cell death (apoptosis) can be delayed.
The test analyzes your average telomere length in white blood cells compared to the normal reference range for your age-matched population.
This test may be added on to any of the Basic or Advanced MethylDetox Profiles at discounted pricing.