AGTC Genomics Advances Precision and Personalised Nutrition in Asia
Malaysia faces a substantial burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with dietary intake representing an important, modifiable contributor. The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 found that 54.4% of Malaysian adults were overweight or obese, 15.6% had diabetes and 29.2% had hypertension. The same survey reported that 95.1% did not meet the recommended intake of five daily servings of fruit and vegetables.
Dietary patterns characterised by excess energy, high sodium, free sugars and unhealthy fats, alongside insufficient fibre and nutrient-rich foods, can contribute to weight gain and cardiometabolic risk. Addressing these challenges requires attention to both the quantity and quality of food consumed, while recognising differences in individual nutritional requirements.
Against this backdrop, AGTC Genomics is advancing its focus on precision and personalised nutrition in Asia. During a sharing session with NHF Medicare, Ms Samantha Wong, Chief Dietitian of AGTC Genomics, presented advances and shared practical experience in integrating nutrigenomics and nutriepigenomics into nutritional care.
The session explored how biological insights can complement established dietary assessment, helping healthcare professionals develop advice that reflects each individual’s health, lifestyle and nutritional priorities.
Nutrigenomics: Understanding Inherited Predispositions
Nutrigenomics explores how genes and nutrition interact. Genetic testing can identify inherited variations associated with nutrient metabolism, food tolerance and susceptibility to certain nutrition-related conditions.
These insights can help explain differences in dietary responses and inform longer-term nutritional planning when interpreted alongside medical history, dietary habits and clinical findings.
Nutriepigenomics: Exploring Changing Nutritional Influences
Nutriepigenomics examines how nutrition interacts with epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, which help regulate gene activity without changing the underlying DNA sequence.
Epigenetic patterns associated with nutritional exposures and metabolism offer an emerging perspective on how diet and lifestyle interact with the body. Their potential application includes complementing nutritional assessment and, where appropriately validated, supporting monitoring over time.
Interpretation remains specific to the marker and test used. Suspected nutrient deficiencies require appropriate clinical assessment and biochemical confirmation.
Translating Science into Practical Dietary Care
Ms Wong highlighted the importance of combining genetic and epigenetic information with dietary assessment, blood biomarkers, medical history and personal health goals.
This integrated approach can help dietitians prioritise nutritional concerns, recommend achievable dietary changes and review progress using appropriate clinical measures. Practical recommendations must also reflect familiar foods, cultural preferences, affordability and daily routines.
The sharing session with NHF Medicare reflects AGTC Genomics’ commitment to professional education and the responsible translation of emerging science into personalised care.
Through continued engagement with healthcare providers, AGTC Genomics aims to support more informed nutritional decisions across Asia, contributing to healthier dietary habits, NCD risk reduction and healthy ageing.
About AGTC Genomics
AGTC Genomics is a Malaysia-based genomics company providing molecular diagnostics, genomic testing and research services. Its work spans precision oncology, inherited conditions, preventive health and personalised nutrition, connecting laboratory insights with healthcare decisions.
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