Power. Possibility. Personal Potential.
Since DNA was discovered in 1869, science has been on a mission to fully understand the power that lies within this magnificent code. In 1977, the first complete genome of a virus was sequenced, opening the door to the study of human genomics. Over the past several decades, we’ve made incredible progress and in 2003 the human genome was fully mapped. Today, we understand that while our genetics can’t be changed, how our genes express themselves is flexible.
This flexibility is a concept called epigenetics and can be thought of like an “on” and “off” switch, where factors like diet, exercise and stress influence how a gene behaves. We have more control than we ever imagined.
Welcome to functional genomics.
At Sotos Functional Genomics we work with IntellxxDNA, a genomics intelligence technology company co-founded by Dr. Sharon Hausman-Cohen, who received her masters and medical degrees from Harvard University. Having worked alongside and being personally trained by Dr. Hausman-Cohen, Dr. Sotos has deep experience guiding patients through their own clinical-grade reports and developing a 360 degree plan to foster better health and long-term outcomes.
We help you create a customized plan based on in-depth, evidence-based, science-focused genomic intelligence.
This is where personalized medicine begins.
“As a physician, better health starts with the best possible personal data. It’s why I started this practice and now specialize in working with patients one-on-one to unlock the power of their own DNA.”
Meet Dr. Maryelaine Sotos
Hi! I'm Dr. Maryelaine (Mel) Sotos. I am an integrative board certified family medicine physician and registered dietitian who also holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and a master's degrees in nutrition and architecture. Not a typical path, I realize. Before my medical training, I worked as a dietitian in functional medicine practices with Dr. Amy Myers in Austin, TX and Dr. Mark Hyman in Lenox, Massachusetts. I also taught workshops at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. Most recently, I practiced at Resilient Health in Austin, TX, focusing on integrative primary care. At Sotos Functional Genomics, I have turned my core interests to specializing in genomics to create personalized health plans for patients of all ages.
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From sociology to medicine with a stop in architecture along the way? To some my career path may seem random. Let me explain.
I’ve always been fascinated by design. I began by studying the various designs of humanity and how it interacts with its surroundings. Not finding enough there, I studied architecture, becoming enamored by a structure's beauty and the hidden complexities within. But what I quickly learned is I’m most in awe of the most elegant machine of all – US - our human body.
How it functions, how it adapts. How its inherent design – the architecture – is built. This discovery led me to becoming an expert in food and nutrition, focusing on how to fuel this beautiful machine. Wanting to learn even more led me to become a physician. Frustrated by the one-size-fits-all approach to medicine, I've chosen to explore our most fundamental structure and our very essence – our genomics - and use it to help others optimize their health. And this is where I am today.
My Approach
Actionable
Our genomic reports contain only those genes which are actionable, meaning there is the ability to "flip the switch," turning expression off or on through diet modifications, supplements, lifestyle and environmental changes. We don't look at anything that cannot potentially be influenced.
Thorough
You will receive a detailed genomic report that includes each gene name, your specific variants and how they work in the body, the degree of impact Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs, pronounced "snips") could have on your health, and most importantly, what you can do about it. The goal is that your genomic report and consultation will leave you feeling educated and empowered to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
Personalized
Together we will review your "hot spots," or those areas with the highest potential impact on your health, and create a customized plan with ways to modify your diet, lifestyle or environment, as well as suggest supplements that may influence gene expression. This plan can be shared with your primary care physician to make more efficient medical decisions, such as medications that work best with your body chemistry or treatments that may be more effective.
Services
Genomic Report Consult
We offer a selection of genomic reports from IntellxxDNA. Choose an individual report or a combination of reports to get the most comprehensive understanding of your personal genome.
Extended Consult Time
Wanting more discussion time than your selected report includes? Schedule additional time with Dr. Sotos to further review your genomic report, follow-up or get assistance with your customized plan.
