SelfDecode Glossary
Welcome to the SelfDecode Glossary! This resource explains key terms related to our platform, genetics, and lab testing. Use the links to quickly understand terminology used in your reports, articles, and AI responses.
1️⃣ SelfDecode Features
| Term | Definition | Notes / Related Terms |
|---|---|---|
| DNA Kit | SelfDecode’s DNA testing kit; provides the highest coverage and accuracy for the platform. | Recommended for the most accurate health-related insights; includes SNPs that many third-party tests don’t capture. |
| SelfDecode Subscription | A recurring, paid access to the SelfDecode platform that provides ongoing updates, new reports, and personalized health insights. | |
| DNA Health Report | A report generated by SelfDecode that analyzes your raw DNA file to identify potential risks or predispositions and provides personalized recommendations to support health optimization. | A full list of report topics can be found here. |
| DNA Medical Reports | Advanced reports generated from your raw DNA file, providing science-backed insights into serious health topics. | A full list of report topics can be found here. |
| Longevity Screener | A SelfDecode report that uses DNA, genetic ancestry, and biometric information to identify potential predispositions to various conditions. | Requires a SelfDecode DNA kit |
| Medication Check Report (PGx Testing) | A DNA report showing how your genetics may affect your response to medications. | Pharmacogenomics; requires a SelfDecode DNA kit |
| Upload Labs | Feature allowing clients to upload lab results | Reports |
| Quality of Evidence Score | A measure that quantifies the level of scientific support for a particular report. | It reflects the extent to which the available evidence supports the report's validity. The score is presented on a scale of 0 to 5, with 0 indicating no evidence and 5 denoting strong scientific backing. |
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2️⃣ Genetics Terms
| Term | Definition | Notes / Related Terms |
|---|---|---|
| Gene | A segment of DNA that contains instructions for building proteins and influences specific traits or biological processes. | Variants, Gene Expression |
| Allele | A version of a gene or genetic location inherited from each parent. Differences in alleles contribute to human variation. | Gene, SNP |
| Variant / Genetic Variant | A small difference or change in a DNA sequence. Variants can influence how genes function but are not inherently “good” or “bad.” SNPs are a type of genetic variant. | Gene, SNP |
| Raw DNA file | The unprocessed genetic data exported from a DNA testing service. | Can be uploaded to SelfDecode for analysis; formats accepted include .txt , .csv , .zip , .gz , .vcf . |
| SNP | Single Nucleotide Polymorphism; a variation in a single DNA building block | Used in polygenic risk scoring |
| Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) | A score that combines the effects of many genetic variants to estimate a person’s genetic predisposition for a particular trait or health condition. | Genetics, Risk Assessment |
| Genotype | The genetic makeup of an individual at a specific location in the genome | See also Phenotype |
| Phenotype | Observable traits or characteristics influenced by genotype | Genetics |
| DNA | Deoxyribonucleic acid; the molecule carrying genetic instructions | Genetics, SNP |
| rsID (Reference SNP ID) | A unique identifier assigned to a specific SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) in the genome, used to track genetic variations across studies and databases. | Example: rs6265 in the BDNF gene; helps simplify genetic reporting and interpretation. |
| Genetic Predisposition | The likelihood of developing a condition based on your genetic makeup. Having a predisposition does not guarantee you will develop the condition. | Variant, PRS |
| Gene Expression | The process by which information from a gene is used to produce a functional product, such as a protein. Gene expression can be influenced by lifestyle, environment, and other factors. | Gene, Genetic Predisposition |
| Reference Genome | A standardized model of human DNA used for comparison in genetic studies. | Reference Allele |
| Reference Allele | The version of a DNA sequence found in the reference genome; used as a baseline for comparison. | Alternative Allele, Major Allele |
| Alternative Allele | A version of a DNA sequence that differs from the reference allele. | Reference Allele |
| Major Allele | The most common version of an allele found in a population. | Minor Allele |
| Minor Allele | The less common version of an allele found in a population. | Major Allele |
3️⃣ Lab Testing Terms
| Term | Definition | Notes / Related Terms |
|---|---|---|
| CBC | Complete Blood Count; measures several components of your blood including WBC, RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets | See also WBC, RBC, Hemoglobin |
| DNR | Do Not Report; indicates results that do not need further reporting | CBC, Lab Panel Notes |
| Normal Range / Reference Range | Lab values that cover most of a healthy population, used for comparison. | May differ by lab or testing method. |
| Optimal Range | Lab values associated with better health outcomes, typically a subset of the normal range. | Used by SelfDecode; guides lifestyle adjustments to support health and longevity. |
| Lab Marker / Biomarker | A measurable substance or characteristic in the body that provides information about health or disease status; typically bloodwork. | SelfDecode users can upload biomarkers to the Lab Analyzer to see what they mean for their health and track changes over time. |