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PON1 and Organophosphate Detoxification: What Your Genetics Can Mean for Exposure Risk

Organophosphate pesticides are used in agriculture to control insects by interfering with nerve signaling. When people are exposed to these chemicals they can affect human health. The PON1 gene makes an enzyme that helps break down and remove many organophosphate compounds. Differences in the PON1 gene change how well this enzyme works. That means some people clear these chemicals faster, while others clear them more slowly. Slower clearance can allow organophosphates to stay in the body longer, which may increase the risk of health issues such as thyroid dysfunction.

How PON1 Works

The PON1 enzyme participates in a phase of detoxification that transforms organophosphates into forms the body can eliminate. When PON1 activity is lower, there is less enzymatic capacity to neutralize these compounds. This can translate to a higher internal dose after an exposure event. While genetics help determine baseline PON1 activity, environmental factors, nutritional status, and lifestyle also influence detoxification capacity.

Practical Steps to Reduce Exposure and Support Detoxification

PlexusDx provides genetic information to help you understand your predispositions. This is educational only. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making health decisions or starting supplements.

  • Reduce exposure
    • Choose organic produce when possible, especially for items known to carry higher pesticide residues.
    • Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with water and a brush for firm produce.
    • Peel produce when appropriate, recognizing that peeling can remove nutrients too.
  • Eat a detox-supportive diet
    • Include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. These support liver pathways that help process toxins.
    • Prioritize antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds to help combat oxidative stress.
    • Support phase 2 detoxification with sulfur-containing foods such as garlic, onions, and eggs.
  • Hydration and fiber
    • Drink adequate water to support kidney filtration and toxin elimination.
    • Eat fiber from whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits to help bind and eliminate toxins through the digestive tract.
  • Regular physical activity
    • Exercise supports circulation, lymphatic flow, and metabolic health. Aim for a mix of aerobic and resistance exercises most days of the week as tolerated.
  • Liver-supporting lifestyle choices
    • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking to reduce liver burden.
    • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce metabolic stress on detoxification systems.
  • Consider supplements carefully
    • After consulting your healthcare provider, some people consider antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, or nutrients that support liver detoxification like N-acetylcysteine, milk thistle, or SAMe. These should be personalized to health status and medications.
  • Workplace and home safety
    • If you work with pesticides or live near treated fields, use protective equipment, follow safety rules, and minimize take-home contamination by changing clothes and showering before interacting with family.

Genetic Interpretation — PON1 rs662

The section below explains how different rs662 genotypes are associated with PON1 enzyme activity and possible implications for organophosphate handling. Use the accordion to expand the genotype that matches your report. Remember this information is educational. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

2 effect alleles (CC) — Reduced PON1 activity

If your genotype is CC for rs662 you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with reduced PON1 enzyme activity. A lower activity level can mean your body processes organophosphate pesticides more slowly. When exposed to these chemicals they may remain in your system longer, potentially increasing the chance of harm, including effects on the thyroid.

Practical considerations if you are CC:

  • Be especially diligent about reducing pesticide exposure. Prioritize organic produce for high-residue items and thoroughly wash nonorganic produce.
  • Focus on food choices that support liver detoxification and antioxidant status. Increase cruciferous vegetables, fiber, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
  • Discuss targeted supplement options and testing with your healthcare provider if you have ongoing exposure risks. Consider liver function tests and thyroid screening when appropriate.
  • Take extra precautions in occupational settings where pesticide exposure may occur. Use appropriate personal protective equipment and follow decontamination practices.
1 effect allele (CT) — Moderately reduced PON1 activity

If your genotype is CT you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with moderately reduced PON1 activity compared to the TT genotype. Your body may clear organophosphates a bit more slowly than someone with two non-effect alleles. This can modestly increase susceptibility to their effects, including a slightly higher risk of thyroid problems after exposure.

Practical considerations if you are CT:

  • Reduce exposure where possible by choosing organic produce or washing and peeling higher-residue items.
  • Include diet and lifestyle measures that support detoxification: cruciferous vegetables, antioxidants, adequate hydration, fiber, and regular exercise.
  • Talk with your healthcare provider about environment-related testing if you have concerns about chronic exposure. Routine thyroid screening can be considered if symptoms occur.
  • Follow safety protocols at work and use protective equipment when handling pesticides or working near treated areas.
0 effect alleles (TT) — Typical PON1 activity

If your genotype is TT you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This is associated with typical or expected PON1 enzyme activity. Your PON1-mediated detoxification of many organophosphate compounds functions as expected, which helps your body neutralize and clear these chemicals efficiently.

Practical considerations if you are TT:

  • Continue standard exposure-reduction practices such as washing produce and choosing organic options when feasible.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle that support liver function and antioxidant status.
  • Be mindful of occupational or accidental exposures and follow recommended safety measures.

When to Talk with Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you have ongoing occupational exposure to pesticides.
  • If you experience symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, weight change, temperature sensitivity, or changes in heart rate.
  • If you are considering supplements to support detoxification, because some supplements can interact with medications or underlying conditions.
  • If you want testing such as thyroid function tests or liver panels to monitor the effects of potential exposures.

PlexusDx provides educational genetic information about predispositions only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider to interpret genetic results in the context of your health, environment, and medical history before making changes to treatment, diet, or lifestyle.