The Oxidative Damage test measures urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine using an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to provide a quantitative marker of DNA oxidation. This biomarker reflects oxidative stress processes in the body, with 8-OHdG representing one of the most frequently detected oxidative modifications of DNA excised during cellular repair and excreted in urine.
Clinically, this assessment may be useful when exploring oxidative stress in the context of metabolic conditions, chronic inflammation, neurodegenerative concerns, long-standing disease processes or environmental exposures. Elevated oxidative damage has been examined in research relating to a wide range of chronic conditions, making 8-OHdG a practical marker for practitioners considering the relationship between oxidative balance and presenting symptoms.
Practitioners typically interpret these findings alongside dietary patterns, lifestyle influences, environmental contact, antioxidant intake and other functional biomarkers. Used in this way, the Oxidative Damage test can help inform conversations about oxidative stress patterns, nutritional considerations and long-term wellbeing strategies for clients.