Health Markers

3-Hydroxykynurenine (3-OH-kynurenine) is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is an intermediate product formed during the conversion of tryptophan to other compounds, including the essential coenzyme NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)....

5-Hydroxyindoleacetate (5-HIAA) is the primary metabolite of serotonin, a key neurotransmitter. It is used clinically as a diagnostic marker, particularly in the detection and monitoring of carcinoid tumors, which can overproduce serotonin. Urinary 5-HIAA can also be used as a approximate marker for serotonin levels in the body....

Anti-Thyroglobulin (A-TG) antibodies are immune system proteins that target thyroglobulin, a vital protein in the thyroid gland involved in thyroid hormone production. Elevated A-TG levels often indicate autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. These conditions can affect thyroid function and overall health, making A-TG monitoring important for diagnosis and management.

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (A-TPO) antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system. They mistakenly target thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme crucial for thyroid hormone production. High levels of A-TPO antibodies can indicate autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. These conditions lead to either underactive or overactive thyroid function, impacting overall health....

Adipate, also known as adipic acid, is a compound involved in lipid metabolism and serves as a biomarker for metabolic dysfunctions, especially those related to fatty acid oxidation. Its presence, often detected in urine or blood tests, can aid in diagnosing and monitoring metabolic conditions.

Albumin is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma and plays a critical role in maintaining oncotic pressure, which helps keep fluid within the blood vessels. It also binds and transports various substances in the blood, including hormones, vitamins, and drugs. Albumin is produced in the liver, and its levels in the blood are a key indicator of liver function and nutritional status....

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. ALP plays a crucial role in breaking down proteins in the body and is involved in processes like dephosphorylation. In the liver, ALP is linked to the bile ducts and is useful in diagnosing liver and bone diseases. Elevated levels can indicate bile duct obstruction or bone diseases, while low levels can be seen in certain genetic disorders 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, or Alanine Aminotransferase, is an enzyme primarily found in the liver. It plays a crucial role in metabolizing proteins. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream, leading to an increase in its levels. Therefore, measuring ALT is a common way to assess liver health. Elevated levels of ALT can indicate liver damage or disease, while normal levels suggest a healthy liver....

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver that plays a key role in protein metabolism and other essential metabolic processes. Elevated ALT levels in the blood can signal liver cell damage or inflammation, making it an important marker for assessing liver health.

Amylase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in digestion. It is produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. Amylase's primary function is to break down complex carbohydrates, such as starches and glycogen, into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose, which can be easily absorbed by the body....

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a ketone body that reflects the body’s shift to using fat as a primary fuel source. Produced by the liver from fatty acids during fasting, carbohydrate restriction, or intense exercise, BHB provides an alternative energy supply — particularly for the brain — when glucose is limited. It is a key marker of ketosis, a metabolic state associated with fat metabolism.

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 accumulation, and lowering homocysteine levels, which contributes to cardiovascular health.

Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the body as a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. It is transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted into the bile. A healthy liver filters bilirubin from the blood and converts it into a form that can be eliminated through the digestive system. Bilirubin levels in the blood are an important indicator of liver function and health, as well as potential issues with the bile ducts or the breakdown of red blood cells….

Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a finding that indicates the presence of red blood cells in the urine. It may be visible, giving the urine a pink, red, or cola-like color, or microscopic, detectable only through laboratory testing. This condition can arise from a wide range of causes, from minor issues to serious underlying diseases.

Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that plays a key role in energy metabolism. It transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are broken down to produce energy, and helps remove metabolic waste from cells. While the body can synthesize carnitine in the liver and kidneys, it is also obtained from dietary sources, primarily animal-based foods.

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 supports a wide range of vital functions in the body. It contributes to the structure of cell membranes, aids in producing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine — important for muscle control, memory, and mood — and supports fat metabolism and liver health. Choline is also critical for brain development, neural tube formation during pregnancy, DNA synthesis, and the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Cis-aconitate is an intermediate in the Krebs cycle, a central metabolic pathway involved in cellular energy production. It is formed during the conversion of citrate to isocitrate, a reaction catalyzed by the enzyme aconitase. The Krebs cycle plays a vital role in oxidizing nutrients to produce ATP, the main energy source for cells, and also supplies key building blocks for the synthesis of amino acids, nucleotides, and fatty acids.

Citramalate, also known as citramalic acid, is a compound that can be measured as a urinary marker to assess metabolic health. It is produced as a metabolic byproduct and may indicate bacterial imbalance or overgrowth in the gut. Elevated levels can also reflect potential disruptions in normal metabolic processes.

Citrate is a key component in the citric acid cycle, crucial for energy production in aerobic organisms. It helps in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to generate ATP (energy). Citrate also aids in regulating the body's acid-base balance and plays a role in preventing kidney stones by binding with calcium....

Creatine Kinase (CK) is an enzyme present 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 waste product produced by muscle metabolism, commonly used as an indicator of kidney function. It is generated from creatine, a molecule important for energy production in muscles, and is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine...

Cystathionine is a non-protein amino acid that serves as an important intermediate in the metabolism of the essential amino acids methionine and cysteine. It plays a key role in the transsulfuration pathway, where homocysteine is converted into cystathionine by the enzyme cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and cystathionine is then further broken down into cysteine by the enzyme cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE).

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (A-TPO) antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system. They mistakenly target thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme crucial for thyroid hormone production. High levels of A-TPO antibodies can indicate autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. These conditions lead to either underactive or overactive thyroid function, impacting overall health....

EBNA is a protein produced by EBV (Epstein Barr) during the later stages of infection. The presence of EBNA IgG antibodies usually indicates that the infection occurred some time ago, as these antibodies typically develop several weeks to months after the initial infection and remain detectable for life. Testing for EBNA IgG is often used in conjunction with VCA to distinguish between a current or past infection 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 indicator in diagnosing both acute and chronic EBV infections....

eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) is a measure that estimates how well the kidneys filter waste from the blood. It is calculated using serum creatinine levels along with factors like age, body size, and gender. eGFR is a key indicator of kidney function, helping to determine how effectively the kidneys are working. A lower eGFR suggests reduced kidney function, which may indicate kidney disease or damage.

Ethyl malonate, from a metabolic perspective, is significant as a biomarker for certain metabolic disorders. Elevated levels of ethyl malonate in the body, can indicate inherited metabolic disorders, such as ethylmalonic encephalopathy, or problems with fatty acid oxidation....

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in many organs throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver. GGT plays a key role in the metabolism of glutathione, an important antioxidant. It's involved in the transfer of amino acids and peptides across cellular membranes and in glutathione metabolism. Elevated GGT levels are commonly used as a marker for liver damage, particularly in detecting bile duct obstructions and liver diseases related to alcohol consumption....

Globulin is a group of blood proteins that play important roles in the body, including transporting hormones, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. They are also key components of the immune system, with some globulins functioning as antibodies that help defend against infections. Produced by the liver and immune system, globulin levels can provide insight into immune health, liver function, and nutritional status.

Glucose is a simple sugar and the primary source of energy for the body’s cells. It plays a vital role in metabolism, supporting brain function, muscle activity, and overall energy production. Blood glucose levels are carefully regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon. Imbalances in glucose levels can lead to conditions like diabetes, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia, impacting overall health and requiring proper management.

GOT, or Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase, is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, and is involved in the transport of amino acids across cell membranes. GOT is commonly measured in blood tests and is used as a marker of liver and biliary tract function....

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) is a biomarker that reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. It forms when glucose binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells and serves as a key indicator for long-term blood sugar control. Elevated HbA1c levels suggest poor glucose regulation and are commonly used to diagnose and manage diabetes.

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) is a type of cholesterol often referred to as “good” cholesterol. It helps protect heart health by carrying excess cholesterol from the bloodstream to the liver, where it can be removed from the body. Higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.

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 associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and pregnancy complications. Imbalances may be caused by deficiencies in B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate), impaired methylation, or genetic variants like MTHFR. Monitoring homocysteine levels can provide valuable insights into cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic health.

Homovanillic acid (HVA) is a metabolite that reflects the breakdown of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in the body. HVA levels serve as an important marker for evaluating dopamine activity. Changes in HVA can indicate shifts in dopamine function and are used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments targeting dopamine metabolism.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a blood test that measures low levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a key marker of inflammation in the body. Unlike standard CRP tests, hs-CRP can detect subtle inflammation, making it especially useful for evaluating the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Elevated hs-CRP levels may indicate a higher risk of heart disease, even when other risk factors are not present.

Hydroxymethylglutarate (HMG), especially as β-hydroxy β-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA), is a compound that plays two vital roles in the body. It is a key intermediate in cholesterol synthesis, necessary for creating cell membranes, steroid hormones, and bile acids. Additionally, in the liver, HMG-CoA contributes to producing ketone bodies, which serve as an alternative energy source during fasting, low-carbohydrate diets, or intense exercise when glucose levels are low.

IDO (Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase) is an enzyme crucial in metabolizing the amino acid tryptophan along the kynurenine pathway. It plays a key role in immune regulation by depleting tryptophan, which can suppress immune responses. This function is significant in cancer research, as tumors may exploit it to evade the immune system. IDO is also involved in various conditions, including psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, and is influenced by inflammation and stress....

IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is the most abundant type of antibody in the blood and plays a critical role in the immune system's long-term response to infections. In the context 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 shortly after infection, IgG antibodies develop more slowly and can remain in the body for a long time, providing prolonged immunity against reinfection....

IgM (Immunoglobulin M) is a type of antibody that serves as the body’s first line of defense against infections. It plays a key role in the immune system’s early response by quickly recognizing 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 typically indicates a recent exposure or active infection, providing important information about the early stages of immune response.

Isocitrate is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, an essential metabolic pathway for cellular energy production. It is formed from citrate and then converted into α-ketoglutarate, a step that helps generate NADH used for ATP synthesis. Isocitrate also connects multiple metabolic processes, including the production of amino acids, nucleotides, and fatty acids.

Ketones are substances produced when the body breaks down fats for energy, especially during low carbohydrate intake such as fasting or following a ketogenic diet. This process, called ketosis, primarily takes place in the liver and generates key ketones like beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone. Ketones serve as an alternative energy source, particularly for the brain, but elevated levels can signal serious conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in people with diabetes.

KMO, or Kynurenine 3-monooxygenase, is an enzyme that plays a key role in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. This enzyme is important because it influences the balance between different metabolites in the kynurenine pathway, which can have various effects on the body. KMO activity, therefore, has significant implications for brain health and is a focus of research in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and schizophrenia....

Kynurenic acid is a metabolite produced in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is known for its role in the nervous system, where it acts as a neuroprotective agent. It's significant in neurological and psychiatric research, as imbalances are linked to conditions like schizophrenia and depression....

Kynurenine is a key metabolite in the breakdown of the essential amino acid tryptophan. It serves as a precursor to several biologically significant compounds, including neuroprotective kynurenic acid and neurotoxic quinolinic acid, playing a crucial role in various physiological and pathological processes in the body....

Lactate, commonly known as lactic acid, is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, produced when the body breaks down glucose for energy without adequate oxygen, typically during intense exercise. It's associated with muscle fatigue and the "burn" sensation during strenuous activity. Lactate also plays a role in the Cori cycle, where it's converted back to glucose in the liver....

LDL, or Low-Density Lipoprotein, is commonly known as "bad" cholesterol. It transports cholesterol particles throughout your body. LDL cholesterol is considered “bad” because high levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. This plaque buildup can narrow the arteries and make them less flexible, a condition known as atherosclerosis....

The measurement of histamine in stool is a diagnostic tThe LDL/HDL ratio is a crucial diagnostic marker used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This ratio compares the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, to high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as "good" cholesterol. LDL is responsible for transporting cholesterol to the arteries, where it can build up and form plaques that increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. HDL, on the other hand, helps remove cholesterol from the arteries, transporting it back to the liver for excretion or re-utilization. A higher LDL/HDL ratio indicates...

Urinary leukocytes are white blood cells present in the urine. Normally, there are few or no leukocytes in urine; their presence often indicates an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys. They are important markers in diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other kidney-related issues....

Malate, or malic acid, is a key compound involved in cellular metabolism, especially within the Krebs cycle in the mitochondria. It plays an essential role in energy production by being converted to oxaloacetate, a process that generates NADH, which is then used to produce ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell.

Methylmalonic acid (MMA) is a substance produced in the body during the metabolism of certain fats and proteins. It is a byproduct of the breakdown of an amino acid called methionine, and its levels are influenced by the amount of vitamin B12 in the body. MMA is particularly significant because elevated levels can be an indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency....

Neopterin is a molecule produced by immune cells, particularly macrophages, in response to stimulation by interferon-gamma. It is considered a marker of immune system activation and inflammation. Elevated levels of neopterin in urine or blood can indicate increased immune activity, often seen in infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic inflammatory conditions. Because it reflects cellular immune response, neopterin is sometimes used to monitor disease progression or immune system status.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a vital coenzyme present in all living cells. It plays a key role in cellular metabolism, especially in redox reactions, by cycling between its oxidized form (NAD⁺) and reduced form (NADH). Beyond energy production, NAD⁺ is essential for cell signaling, DNA repair, and regulating gene expression, making it critical for maintaining cellular health and function.

Urinary nitrates are chemical compounds normally not present in significant amounts in urine. The presence of nitrates in urine often indicates a bacterial infection, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), as certain bacteria can convert naturally occurring urinary nitrite into nitrate. Testing for nitrates is a common method for detecting UTIs....

Non-HDL cholesterol is a measure of all the bad types of cholesterol, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein), and other lipid particles that contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries. It is calculated by subtracting your HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or "good" cholesterol level from your total cholesterol number. Non-HDL cholesterol is considered a more comprehensive marker of risk for heart disease than LDL cholesterol alone, as it encompasses all the atherogenic 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 (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a protein produced by the prostate gland and commonly measured in the blood as a marker for prostate health. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer but can also result from non-cancerous conditions such as benign 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 a measure that reflects the proportion of free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) to total PSA in the blood. It is calculated by dividing the free PSA (unbound to proteins) by the total PSA (free plus protein-bound), then multiplying by 100 to express it as a percentage. This ratio helps distinguish between benign prostate conditions and prostate cancer, 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. In the presence of oxygen, it contributes to energy production by entering the citric acid cycle. Under low oxygen conditions, such as during intense exercise, pyruvate is converted into lactate, allowing continued ATP (energy) production. Pyruvate also plays a role in gluconeogenesis, the process of generating glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, and is 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 plays a key role as an excitotoxin in the central nervous system. Elevated levels of quinolinic acid have been linked to neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, epilepsy, and certain psychiatric disorders including depression.

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a naturally occurring compound found in all cells, formed from methionine and ATP. It plays a vital role in methylation processes, neurotransmitter production affecting mood, joint health, and liver function. SAMe is commonly used as a supplement to support conditions such as depression, osteoarthritis, and liver disorders.

The SAMe/SAH ratio is a measure of the balance between S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and S-Adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in the body, reflecting cellular methylation capacity. SAMe is a crucial methyl donor for various biochemical processes, while SAH is a byproduct formed after SAMe donates a methyl group. A high SAMe/SAH ratio indicates good methylation capacity, beneficial for cellular functions and overall health....

Suberic acid, also known as octanedioic acid, is a dicarboxylic acid that in a biological and physiological context, is primarily significant as a metabolic marker. Elevated levels of suberic acid in the body can indicate metabolic disorders, especially those related to fatty acid oxidation, such as medium-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency....

Succinate is a key metabolic intermediate that plays an essential role in the Krebs cycle, the process by which cells produce energy. It helps convert nutrients into ATP, the primary energy source for cellular functions. Beyond energy production, succinate also participates in amino acid and fatty acid synthesis and acts as a signaling molecule that influences inflammation and the body’s response to low oxygen levels.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It is essential for making hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs, but it's also found in foods from animal sources, such as meat and dairy products. There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called "bad" cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), known as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream....

Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) is a blood test that reflects the blood's capacity to bind and transport iron through transferrin — the main iron-carrying protein. It provides an indirect measure of available transferrin and is commonly used alongside other iron tests to help assess iron deficiency, anemia, or iron overload conditions.

Total protein is a measure that reflects the combined levels of two major blood proteins — albumin and globulin. Albumin, the most abundant protein in blood plasma, helps maintain oncotic pressure and transports various substances, while globulins play key roles in immune response, blood clotting, and other functions. Total protein levels provide important insights into nutritional status as well as liver and kidney health.

Transferrin saturation is a measure that reflects the percentage of transferrin — a blood protein that transports iron — that is actually bound to iron. It helps assess how effectively iron is being carried and utilized in the body. This marker is useful for identifying iron deficiency or iron overload, and is typically calculated using serum iron and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). Low levels may suggest iron deficiency, while high levels can indicate conditions such as hemochromatosis.

Transglutaminase IgG (tTG-IgG) is a blood test that detects IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, an enzyme in the intestinal lining. It is mainly used to help diagnose celiac disease, especially in individuals with IgA deficiency or unclear tTG-IgA results, by indicating an immune reaction to gluten.

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in the bloodstream and serve as a major form of energy storage. Excess calories from food are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells, then released by hormones for energy between meals. Elevated triglyceride levels, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL cholesterol, are linked to a higher risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.

Trimethylamine (TMA) is a volatile organic compound produced in the gut by bacterial fermentation of dietary nutrients such as choline, L-carnitine, and lecithin. Normally, TMA is rapidly 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 impaired liver detoxification capacity. High TMA is also associated with trimethylaminuria, a rare metabolic disorder that causes a strong body odor. Monitoring TMA provides insight 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 formed in the liver through the metabolic breakdown of proteins. After its formation, urea is transported to the kidneys and is eventually excreted in the urine. The measurement of urea levels in the blood, often referred to as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), is a common test used to assess kidney function. Elevated levels of urea in the blood can indicate impaired kidney function or other conditions affecting the body's ability to process and excrete waste....

Urine density, also known as urine specific gravity, is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the urine. It reflects the kidney's ability to concentrate urine and is a key indicator of hydration status and kidney function. Normal urine density ranges, but deviations can suggest dehydration, overhydration, or kidney disorders....

Urinary urobilinogen is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells, formed in the intestines from bilirubin and then excreted in the urine. Normally present in low concentrations, it can indicate liver function and health. Elevated or decreased levels can suggest various liver or hematologic conditions....

Vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) is a metabolite resulting from the breakdown of catecholamines like adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine. It serves as a clinical marker for assessing catecholamine activity. VMA levels are typically measured in urine and can be influenced by certain foods and medications....

Xanthurenate is a metabolite formed during the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway. Its levels can reflect vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) status, as this vitamin acts as a vital cofactor in the process. Elevated xanthurenate may indicate a deficiency in vitamin B6.