The Lab Report

Based on recent research, the term ‘dysbiosis’ is no longer a simple black-and-white diagnosis of a gut imbalance. The scientific understanding of a healthy microbiome is evolving. It’s no longer just about the laundry list of organisms present, but rather about their functionality for health and disease. In today’s episode, we unpack the term ‘dysbiosis.’ Join us to rethink what it means to have a healthy microbiome, the utility of novel algorithmic scoring, and how a deeper understanding of this complex ecosystem is opening doors to more targeted diagnostics and therapeutics.   Today on The Lab Report: 4:30 Healthy microbiome vs. Dysbiosis 8:00 Defining terms 10:10 Dysbiosis scoring algorithms 15:40 Functional approach to dysbiosis 16:30 Rethinking pathogens 19:25 The microbiome is reactionary – root cause is important! 23:15 Should we even be using the word “dysbiosis”? 24:25 Whole genome sequencing and gut functionality 28:00 Adaptability of the microbiome Additional Resources: GI Effects Stool Profile Microbiomix Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are often called molecular chaperones. These crucial proteins spring into action when cells are under threat from environmental stressors, toxins, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Join us as we uncover how heat shock proteins function as the cell’s microscopic repair crew. Discover how this fundamental biological mechanism not only protects our cells from daily stresses but also holds promising clues to treating age-related illnesses like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Today on The Lab Report: 3:50 Heat shock proteins and cellular health 8:05 Types of cellular stress 9:30 Specific functions of HSPs 11:00 Metaphors are fun 13:05 How were these discovered? 14:00 Different than cold shock proteins 16:00 Clinical associations in disease 19:15 Naturally increasing your HSPs 21:25 Drug development and implications Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mitochondrial dysfunction may be one of the most important topics in the area of personalized and preventative medicine to date. Thousands of articles have been published on the nature of how mitochondria become damaged and what that means for health, longevity, and aging. On today’s podcast, we take a deep dive into the triggers for mitochondrial dysfunction and what clinical conditions are related to damaged mitochondria. We also discuss how to arm your arsenal with everyday items to help stability, protect, and maintain our mitochondria. We also discuss how other systems within and outside the cell are impacted by these “power plants” within.   Today on The Lab Report: 3:45 Break it down: the parts of the cell 8:40 The mitochondria are power plants 9:00 What’s normal? 10:00 Factors that trigger mitochondrial dysfunction 13:20 The mitochondria as our cell’s cohabitant 16:10 Progression of mitochondrial dysfunction 20:10 Clinical conditions associated with mitochondrial dysfunction 21:00 What can we do about it? Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stool testing technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, with newer methods like PCR and whole-genome sequencing offering faster and more precise insights into the gut microbiome. These innovations have transformed how clinicians approach gut health, allowing for more targeted interventions. However, older technologies—such as microscopy, culture, and enzyme-based assays—still play a valuable role. These methods provide functional insights that molecular tools may miss, such as direct observation of parasites or assessment of digestive markers. The most comprehensive labs recognize that no single method gives the full picture. Instead, combining the strengths of both modern and traditional techniques ensures more accurate, clinically meaningful results. In this episode, we dive into the pros and cons of different laboratory methodologies used in stool testing—from culture and microscopy to PCR and advanced sequencing. We break down how these choices impact accuracy, sensitivity, and clinical usefulness. You'll also learn why Genova Diagnostics stands out for its integrative, evidence-based approach, combining multiple testing methods to deliver the most comprehensive and clinically actionable results available. Today on The Lab Report: 4:00 Technology grows quickly, and the microbiome is complex 7:30 Microbiology culture 12:40 PCR – very precise if done correctly! 17:00 Interpreting the laundry list 20:10 Remember the microscope? 23:30 Whole-genome (shotgun) sequencing pros/cons 27:15 Genova does it all – and well Additional Resources: GI Effects Stool Profile Microbiomix Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turmeric is a spice with ancient origins. You’ve seen it in smoothies, teas, curry, and supplements.  Known for its bright yellow color, it has been used for centuries to support whole-body wellness. From inflammation and joint pain to brain and heart health, in this episode we break down what the science says about turmeric and its main constituent curcumin. Join us as we explore turmeric’s long-standing role in health and wellness and zoom in on curcumin. We break down what the science says about curcumin’s therapeutic potential, how it’s absorbed, and whether supplementation is worth the hype. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a health-conscious listener, this discussion of turmeric promises to spice up your knowledge! Today on The Lab Report: 4:30 The history of turmeric 7:30 Inflammation, whole root vs. curcumin 10:45 Oxidative stress, polyphenols, tumors, brain health 12:50 How much turmeric/curcumin per day 15:15 Poor absorption and bioavailability 18:20 Side effects – be aware 19:30 It stains stuff 21:50 Reputable sourcing and MC’s home recipe?   Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we enter the summer season, many of us will spend countless hours outdoors. We often discuss tick awareness and tick-borne illness, but one tick in particular is getting a lot of press these days. In case you needed another reason to be mindful of ticks, today we discuss Alpha-gal Syndrome. In today’s episode we explore the science behind alpha-gal syndrome – a rare and serious allergy to red meat and other mammal products triggered by a bite from the Lone Star Tick. Tune in to learn how to recognize symptoms and why this syndrome is spreading across many regions and many countries. Today on The Lab Report: 3:30 What is Alpha-gal Syndrome? 6:30 Delayed anaphylaxis? What! 9:50 Epidemiology and prevalence 11:50 Not only red meat – other products 14:55 Diagnosing alpha-gal syndrome 16:20 Tick avoidance and sensitization 18:40 What foods can these patients eat? 20: 15 Question of the Day? Are there herbs that can help? Additional Resources: Alpha-gal Information Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Laura James is a board-certified naturopathic oncologist who has been working with cancer patients for over 20 years. She helps patients who are recently diagnosed with cancer get through the intense steps of conventional treatment – surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation – using natural means like nutrition, herbs, gentle movement, and stress management. In today’s episode, we hear Dr. Laura James discuss her balanced viewpoint on the use of natural therapies in combination with conventional treatment to support cancer patients. Through supplement streamlining, nutritional and botanical recommendations, and lifestyle counseling, her expertise can help you feel better through treatment and beyond. Today on The Lab Report: 4:00 Meet Dr. Laura James and hear how she defines integrative cancer care 9:25 Diet and nutrition – keto, fasting, low carb, protein 14:00 Working alongside conventional oncologists 19:20 Building a care team 24:00 Supporting the chemotherapy journey 27:50 Antioxidants, probiotics, and chemo 32:45 Resilience and the mental emotional rollercoaster 37:40 “Battle language” and vulnerability in cancer 43:50 Preventative care 51:30 Where to find Dr. Laura James? 53:55 The Fireball Additional Resources: LauraJamesND.com Best for Breast Supplements Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. To find a qualified healthcare provider to connect you with Genova testing, or to access select products directly yourself, visit Genova Connect. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflammation is your body’s way of protecting itself from infection, injury, or other insults. Chemical signaling molecules called ‘eicosanoids’ are responsible for creating pain, heat, swelling, and redness. Eicosanoids are made from fatty acids, or dietary fats. We’ve all heard of fish oil and omega-3s being important when it comes to lowering inflammation. But why? In today’s episode, we break down the inflammatory cascade, explain how fatty acids are involved, and we answer the question ‘What in the world is an eicosanoid!?’ Today on The Lab Report: 3:20 What are eicosanoids? 6:05 Fatty acids and the inflammatory cascade 9:10 Lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX) 10:00 The COX eicosanoids – prostanoids and thromboxane 12:10 Leukotrienes, lipoxins, resolvins, and LOX 13:15 Aspirin, fish oil, and heart disease 16:30 Question of the Day How should we measure fatty acids? Additional Resources: NutrEval Essential & Metabolic Fatty Acids - Bloodspot The omega-3 index as a risk factor for coronary heart disease Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: podcast@gdx.net. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.