Does genetics play a role in HPV?
Yes. Genetic variations affect your ability to destroy HPV and produce antibodies. SNPs (single-nucleotide polymorphisms) in your DNA can explain why some women do not clear the virus.
Why do some women not clear HPV?
More than 90% of all HPV infections are cleared by the immune system. However, in a group of women, the virus remains persistent, regardless of their lifestyle. The explanation often lies in genetics.
Genetic variations, known as SNPs (single-nucleotide polymorphisms), influence your body's ability to destroy HPV and produce antibodies. These variations are innate and can explain why two women with the same HPV type have completely different outcomes.
The good news: when you know your genetic profile, you can take targeted action with nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle to compensate for the effects of these variations.
Key genetic variations in HPV
Relevant gene mutations in HPV
| Gene / Enzyme | Function | Consequence of mutation | What can you do? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CYP1A1 / CYP1B1 | Processing estrogens via CYP450 | T3801C mutation increases susceptibility to cervical cancer, especially in combination with smoking | Quit smoking, support for estrogen metabolism |
| SOD (Superoxide dismutase) | Removes oxygen radicals | With mutation: less protection against oxidative stress. Greater risk with low beta-carotene/vitamin E | Antioxidants: beta-carotene, vitamin E, selenium |
| Glutathione S-transferase | Detoxification, protection against free radicals | Mutation + smoking significantly increases CIN risk | Supplements and nutrition to stimulate glutathione production |
| T-lymphocyte genes | Immunological recognition of HPV | Mutation leads to decreased T-cell response against HPV | Supplements to support the immune system |
| MTHFR | Methylation, folic acid processing | With mutation (~45% population): synthetic folic acid accumulates, weakening the immune system | Supplements to support methylation |
of the population has an MTHFR mutation. For this group, it is preferable to use active folate and active B12, depending on blood test results.
CYP450 mutations and estrogen
The enzymes CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 are responsible for processing estrogens in your body. Mutations in these genes, particularly the T3801C mutation, increase susceptibility to cervical cancer.
This effect is greatly exacerbated by smoking. The combination of a CYP1A1 mutation and smoking is particularly risky because smoking affects the same enzyme systems. Women with this genetic variant who also smoke have a significantly higher risk of cell abnormalities.
The solution: quit smoking and support estrogen metabolism with healthy nutrition and potentially supplements.
MTHFR mutation: a common issue
The MTHFR mutation deserves special attention because it is exceptionally common: approximately 45% of the population has a variant of this mutation. MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, an enzyme crucial for the methylation process in your body.
Methylation is involved in DNA repair, detoxification, and immune system function. With an MTHFR mutation, the body cannot properly convert synthetic folic acid into the active form. Unprocessed folic acid accumulates in the blood and can paradoxically weaken the immune system.
The solution is simple but essential: use methylfolate (5-MTHF) instead of synthetic folic acid. This is the active form that your body can use directly, regardless of your MTHFR status.
Genetically targeted immune support
When you know your genetic profile, we can use targeted supplements that exactly match your needs. Two types of supplements are particularly relevant:
Medicinal mushrooms: immune system activation
Extracts from medicinal mushrooms can support the functioning of components of the immune system, such as the activation of macrophages and NK (Natural Killer) cells.
Micro-immunotherapy
Micro-immunotherapy specifically targeted at HPV works with highly diluted immunological signaling substances to stimulate the immune system against HPV. This can be particularly useful for women with a genetically reduced immune response to HPV.
Genetic testing: know your profile
A genetic test can determine which SNPs you have and how they affect your HPV risk. At HPV Health, we work with specialized laboratories for genetic analysis.
How does a genetic test work?
Application and saliva collection
The test is requested via a specialized laboratory (such as Igene or genecoach.nl). You will receive a home kit for a simple saliva collection.
Laboratory analysis
The laboratory analyzes your DNA for relevant SNPs, including MTHFR, CYP450 variants, glutathione S-transferase, and other relevant genes.
Discussion of results
During a consultation, we discuss the results and translate the genetic information into concrete, actionable advice for nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle.
Personalized plan based on your DNA
Based on your genetic profile, we create a plan that perfectly fits your unique situation. Not standard advice, but custom care.
The costs of a comprehensive genetic test are around 750 euros. This is a one-time investment: your genetic profile does not change, and the information is valuable for a lifetime.
Discover your genetic profile
A genetic test provides insight into why your body may not be clearing HPV and which targeted interventions are most effective for you. Discuss the options during an intake consultation.
Schedule an intake consultationVeelgestelde vragen
Can I do anything if I have an unfavorable genetic variant?
How do I know if I have an MTHFR mutation?
Is a genetic test necessary for HPV?
Are genetic tests reimbursed?
Why is the combination of CYP1A1 mutation and smoking so risky?
Questions about your situation?
Feel free to get in touch for personal advice about your HPV diagnosis.
Contact us