Dexamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid commonly used in medicine for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. As a biomarker, it is often measured in blood or urine to monitor its levels during therapeutic use, evaluate compliance with prescribed regimens, or investigate suspected overuse or misuse. Dexamethasone testing is particularly relevant in diagnosing or managing conditions like adrenal insufficiency, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers, where it is used to modulate inflammation or suppress immune responses. Elevated levels may indicate excessive dosing or prolonged exposure, which can lead to side effects like suppressed adrenal function, osteoporosis, or glucose intolerance. Conversely, low or undetectable levels in patients prescribed dexamethasone may point to non-compliance or issues with absorption or metabolism. This biomarker plays a critical role in ensuring safe and effective corticosteroid use while minimizing the risk of complications.

The Deamidated Gliadin Peptide Immunoglobulin A (DGP IGA) marker plays a pivotal role in the celiac disease diagnostic process, offering unique insights that complement other testing methods in a celiac panel. This test specifically measures the IGA antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides, which are a form of gliadin (a key component of gluten) that has been modified during the digestive process. The presence of these antibodies indicates an immune response to gluten, characteristic of celiac disease.

What sets the DGP IGA test apart is its high sensitivity and specificity, particularly in certain patient groups. It is especially valuable in young children, under the age of two, where classic celiac disease markers like Tissue Transglutaminase Immunoglobulin A (TTG IGA) may not be as reliable. In these cases, DGP IGA can provide a more accurate reflection of the immune response to gluten. Additionally, DGP IGA testing is beneficial in cases where individuals have already started a gluten-free diet prior to testing, as it can remain positive for a longer period after gluten has been removed from the diet, unlike TTG IGA which may quickly normalize.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is one of the omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) have a carbon–carbon double bond located three carbons from the methyl end of the chain. Omega-3s, sometimes referred to as “n-3s,” are present in certain foods such as flaxseed and fish, as well as dietary supplements such as fish oil. Several different omega-3s exist, but the majority of scientific research focuses on three: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA contains 18 carbon atoms, whereas EPA and DHA are considered “long-chain” (LC) omega-3s because EPA contains 20 carbons and DHA contains 22.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid with 22 carbons and 6 double bonds (22:6n3). It can be obtained from the diet, supplemented, or created by conversion from DPA using elongase and desaturase enzymes. DHA is present in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, and low levels of DHA can be found in meat and eggs. Both individually or in combination with EPA, DHA is widely supplemented due to the enormous amount of research available regarding its anti-inflammatory role in many clinical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, autoimmune disease, fetal development, visual disturbances, cancer, and metabolic syndrome.

The DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) test within red blood cells (RBC), featured in the Micronutrient panel by Vibrant America, is a crucial assessment tool for evaluating levels of DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid. DHA is paramount for brain health, visual function, and maintaining the integrity of the nervous system. By measuring DHA in RBCs, this test offers a more accurate and long-term representation of omega-3 fatty acid status than serum measurements, reflecting the body's true DHA utilization. This is particularly important for brain development in infants and children, cognitive function in adults, and in the management of cardiovascular health.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, is the precursor for estrogens and testosterone, and is therefore normally present in significantly greater quantities than all the other steroid hormones. It is mostly found in the circulation in the form of its sulfate ester, DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S), levels of which in saliva are higher and more stable than those of DHEA. Its production is highest in the late teens to early 20s and declines gradually with age in both men and women.

Proper DHEA levels contribute to the ideal metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, including efficient glycaemic control.

DHEA levels peak at around age 25, then decline steadily through the following decades. DHEA can be converted downstream in the steroidogenic pathway to create androgens and estrogens. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can be protective against corticosterone’s neurotoxic effects.

DHEA levels peak at around age 25, then decline steadily through the following decades. DHEA can be converted downstream in the steroidogenic pathway to create androgens and estrogens. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can be protective against corticosterone’s neurotoxic effects.

DHEA is produced in the adrenal glands and is a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen. DHEA also affects bone density, response to stress, mood and cognitive function, improves insulin sensitivity, and is associated with decreased cardiovascular and cancer risk. It peaks in the mid-20s and begins to decline after 30. Longevity is associated with higher than age-normal levels of DHEA.

DHEA-S is the sulfate ester of DHEA and only a part of DHEA testing. If this marker was low it would mean that there is potential inflammation blocking DHEA being converted to DHEA-S. 

DHEA is a hormone produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens. DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Levels decrease more quickly in women.

DHEA is a hormone produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens. DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Levels decrease more quickly in women.

DHEA is a hormone produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens. DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Levels decrease more quickly in women.

DHEA is a hormone produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens. DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Levels decrease more quickly in women.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), a pivotal adrenal hormone, features prominently in the ZRT Laboratory Urinary Neurotransmitters panel, underscoring its importance in male health and wellness. As one of the most abundant circulating steroids in humans, DHEA serves as a precursor to both androgens and estrogens, hormones that are essential in male physiology. In men, optimal DHEA levels are critical for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, mood stability, and overall energy levels. Low DHEA levels in males can be a marker of adrenal insufficiency, aging, or other health conditions, and are often associated with symptoms like fatigue, depression, a decrease in sexual function, and an increased risk for chronic diseases.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, with smaller contributions from the ovaries or testes. It serves as a precursor for other sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, and plays a critical role in regulating various physiological processes. Measuring DHEA levels in saliva provides insight into adrenal gland function, hormonal balance, and overall health.

DHEA and DHEAs are produced in the adrenal gland and serve as precursors to androgens and estrogens. Due to the interconversion between DHEA and DHEAS via SULT2A1 and/or STS, the sum of these maybe a better representation of total DHEA synthesis.

DHEA and DHEAs are produced in the adrenal gland and serve as precursors to androgens and estrogens. Due to the interconversion between DHEA and DHEAS via SULT2A1 and/or STS, the sum of these may be a better representation of total DHEA synthesis.