We envision a world where everyone has the tools to understand their gut health before cognitive problems arise.
By combining advanced ddPCR technology with the latest research on the gut-brain axis, we're making the invisible visible.
Unlocking The Gut-Brain Axis
In the past decade, there has been tremendous growth in research evaluating the impact of the intestinal microenvironment on brain health. Your gut and brain are in constant communication through what scientists call the Gut-Brain Axis.
Our test aims to give you an inside look at this connection, shining light on an area of wellness that was previously shrouded in mystery.
The Problem
3 Ways Gut Bacteria Influence The Brain
Gut bacteria produce compounds during metabolism. Some, like short-chain fatty acids, can enter the bloodstream and directly impact brain function and health.
Bacteria influence the gut lining. A thinned lining can allow toxins and inflammatory compounds to escape into the body, potentially affecting systemic inflammation and the brain.
Certain bacterial amyloids may seed protein aggregates. It is hypothesized that these can propagate across nerves and reach the brain via the vagus nerve.
Take The Test
The Bacteria We Measure
We focus on the specific bacteria and genes that research has linked to the gut-brain connection.
Desulfovibrio spp.
Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria
Produces hydrogen sulfide (Hâ‚‚S) which can influence inflammatory pathways. Some species produce magnetite nanoparticles.
Akkermansia spp.
Mucin-Utilizing Bacteria
Plays a key role in mucin turnover and gut barrier integrity. Produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids.
Bft gene (B. fragilis)
Toxin Production Marker
Encodes fragilysin, a protein that can cleave cell-adhesion proteins, potentially affecting gut barrier permeability.
csgA gene (E. coli)
Amyloid Fiber Production
Codes for curli fibers which may act as structural templates that seed protein aggregates.
Our Technology
Advantages of ddPCR
When it comes to the gut-brain connection, precision matters.
Most consumer tests use sequencing technology, which gives relative estimates. We use Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR), the gold standard for absolute quantification.
Because the bacteria relevant to the gut-brain connection are often found at lower abundances, sequencing can be unreliable. ddPCR allows us to count specific bacterial targets with unmatched accuracy.
Take The Test
Your Report
How We Calculate Your Gut-Brain Score
Your Gut-Brain Wellness Score (0-100) combines direct bacterial measurements with a comprehensive lifestyle assessment.
A lower total score indicates optimal levels of key bacteria, while a higher score indicates more room for improvement.
0-19
Optimal
Moderate
Elevated
Bacterial Analysis
/ 50 Points
/ 50 Points
Take The Test
Evidence-based. Data-driven.
Research Publications
We continuously monitor the latest peer-reviewed research to ensure our test targets remain relevant and actionable.
Certified Laboratory
All samples are processed in our CLIA-certified and COLA-accredited laboratory, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and quality control.