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Understanding Mercury Sensitivity and the ABCC2 Gene

Mercury sensitivity means some people are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of mercury. Common sources of mercury exposure include certain seafood, dental amalgam fillings, and environmental pollution. The ABCC2 gene helps your body detoxify by producing a transporter protein that pumps toxins, including mercury, out of cells so they can be eliminated. Variations in ABCC2 can change how efficiently mercury is cleared, which may affect your risk of accumulating mercury and developing related symptoms.

How ABCC2 Affects Mercury Detoxification

The ABCC2 protein is most active in the liver and kidneys. It moves mercury and other toxic compounds out of cells and into bile or urine for removal. If this transporter works less efficiently, mercury can remain inside cells longer, potentially increasing internal mercury levels over time. Increased internal levels can contribute to symptoms such as cognitive changes, fatigue, mood shifts, and kidney stress, particularly with ongoing exposure.

General Recommendations to Support Mercury Detoxification

  • Choose low-mercury seafood. Favor salmon, sardines, trout, and anchovies. Avoid or limit high-mercury fish such as swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, and some large tuna varieties.
  • Eat a whole foods diet rich in fiber, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and healthy fats. Fiber supports elimination and gut health, both important for toxin removal.
  • Prioritize antioxidants. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium help protect cells from oxidative damage that mercury can cause.
  • Consider targeted supplements after discussing with your healthcare provider. Selenium, B vitamins, and N-acetylcysteine may support detox pathways and antioxidant defenses.
  • Stay well hydrated to support kidney filtration and urinary elimination of toxins.
  • Maintain regular physical activity. Exercise supports circulation, sweating, and overall metabolic health, which help detoxification systems function well.
  • Reduce additional toxic exposures. Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and minimize contact with household chemicals and poorly ventilated fumes.
  • Keep up with routine medical and dental care. Discuss dental options and risks related to amalgam fillings with your provider if exposure is a concern.

Blood Tests and Monitoring Considerations

If you are concerned about mercury exposure or have symptoms consistent with mercury toxicity, talk with your healthcare provider about testing and monitoring. Options may include whole blood mercury, hair mercury testing, and evaluation of kidney and neurological function. Testing helps establish exposure levels and guide personalized management.

Genetic Interpretations for rs1885301 in ABCC2

2 effect alleles (AA) — Increased mercury sensitivity

You have the AA genotype for rs1885301, meaning you carry two copies of the effect allele. This variant is associated with reduced ABCC2 transporter function and decreased mercury elimination. With both copies present, your cells may be less efficient at pumping mercury into bile or urine for removal. Over time this could lead to higher internal mercury levels and greater susceptibility to toxic effects, especially with repeated exposure from seafood high in mercury, dental amalgams, or environmental pollution.

Practical steps to consider

  • Strongly prefer low-mercury fish and limit portions of all seafood to recommended amounts.
  • Work with a healthcare provider to consider periodic mercury testing if exposure is likely.
  • Discuss antioxidant and detox-support supplements such as selenium, vitamin C, B vitamins, and N-acetylcysteine. These may help protect tissues and support detoxification pathways.
  • Prioritize hydration, fiber, and regular exercise to support elimination via kidney, liver, and gut.
  • Minimize additional chemical exposures at home and work to reduce total toxic burden.
1 effect allele (AG) — Mildly increased mercury sensitivity

You have the AG genotype for rs1885301, carrying one copy of the effect allele. This suggests moderately reduced ABCC2 function and a somewhat slower mercury clearance than individuals without the variant. The impact is usually less pronounced than with two effect alleles but may still raise internal mercury modestly over time with repeated exposure.

Practical steps to consider

  • Choose low-mercury seafood such as salmon, sardines, and trout. Limit high-mercury species.
  • Eat a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich diet and keep well hydrated to support elimination.
  • Consider antioxidants and nutrients that support detox. Selenium, B complex vitamins, and vitamin C are commonly discussed options. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting supplements.
  • Avoid unnecessary chemical exposures and discuss any occupational risks with your provider.
  • Consider periodic monitoring if you have symptoms or ongoing exposure concerns.
0 effect alleles (GG) — Typical mercury clearance

You have the GG genotype for rs1885301, carrying two copies of the non-effect allele. This is the most common genotype and is associated with normal ABCC2 transporter function. Your genetic baseline for clearing mercury is typical compared to the general population, meaning your cells are likely better able to move mercury into bile or urine for elimination.

Practical steps to consider

  • Continue to choose a balanced diet and prefer low-mercury seafood choices.
  • Maintain hydration, regular exercise, and good sleep to support detox and overall health.
  • Be mindful of mercury sources and reduce unnecessary exposures to limit total toxic burden.
  • Discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider and consider testing only if exposure or symptoms warrant it.

Lifestyle Tips for All Genotypes

  • Cook and store food safely to avoid additional contaminants.
  • Support gut health with fiber, fermented foods, and adequate hydration to enhance biliary elimination of toxins.
  • Manage stress and get restorative sleep. Both support immune and detox systems.
  • When considering supplements, provide your healthcare provider with a complete medication and supplement list to avoid interactions.

Important Disclaimer

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and relates to genetic predispositions only. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before making changes to your diet, supplements, medications, or lifestyle, or if you have concerns about mercury exposure or health symptoms.