EP 1257
1257. Your Genes AREN’T Your Fate—The NEW Science of DNA Biohacking for SuperHuman Health | Sharon Hausman-Cohen
In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Dave Asprey sits down with genomics expert and longevity researcher Sharon Hausman-Cohen to reveal the new frontier of DNA biohacking. For years, we’ve been told that genetics dictate our health and lifespan—but groundbreaking research proves that’s only part of the story.
Dave and Sharon break down why genes don’t define your fate, how epigenetics can reprogram your biology, and the genetic pathways that control cognitive function, energy, and aging. They also dive into APOE4, MTHFR, mitochondrial function, and how new DNA-based insights can help prevent chronic disease.
The best part? You don’t need to be a scientist to take action. Learn how to interpret your genetics, what genes actually matter for longevity, and the targeted biohacks that can help you live longer, stronger, and sharper.
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In this Episode of The Human Upgrade™...
For decades, we’ve been told that our DNA is a fixed blueprint—an unchangeable code that dictates our health and lifespan. But what if that’s only half the story?
Sharon Hausman-Cohen, a physician, researcher, and genomics expert at IntellxxDNA, joins Dave to reveal the cutting-edge science of genetic optimization—how understanding your DNA can unlock longer life, better brain function, and even protection from chronic disease.
Forget the old-school genetic reports that left you with useless percentages. The new frontier of precision genomics goes beyond risk factors to actionable insights, showing you exactly how to turn on your body’s most powerful longevity genes and turn off the pathways driving inflammation, cognitive decline, and disease.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why genetics alone don’t determine your future—and how to use epigenetics to control your health
- The truth about MTHFR, APOE4, and other “bad” genes—are they actually harming you?
- How genetic reports can predict and eliminate brain fog, fatigue, and pain
- The hidden genetic reasons behind ADHD, depression, and anxiety—and how to fix them
- Why some people age faster—and the one longevity gene that determines your biological age
- Cutting-edge breakthroughs in DNA-based biohacking—is it possible to edit your genes for peak performance?
This is the future of personalized medicine. By understanding your own genetic blueprint, you can stop guessing and start making the precise changes that will optimize your energy, brainpower, and lifespan!
** Visit IntellxxDNA at https://intellxxdna.com/asprey/ When you go to the website to find a clinician please select “human upgrade/longevity” as the type of consult to get specialized biohacking clinicians! **
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“Genomics isn’t about predicting disease—it’s about understanding the components of your health so you can improve the specific things that may run in your family or that you’re at risk for.”
Sharon Hausman-Cohen
- 00:00 – Intro
Dave Asprey introduces The Human Upgrade and today’s deep dive into DNA biohacking and longevity.
- 02:00 – The Role of Genetics in Longevity
Are your genes actually controlling your lifespan? What science gets right—and wrong—about longevity genetics.
- 03:37 – Gene Variants & Cognitive Health
How specific genetic markers impact brain function, memory, and the risk of cognitive decline.
- 05:58 – Epigenetics vs. Genetics
Your genes aren’t your destiny—discover how lifestyle and environment influence genetic expression.
- 08:21 – Genomics & Pain Management
How genetic insights are revolutionizing pain treatment and helping people find the right solutions.
- 09:26 – Breakthroughs in Genetic Research
The latest discoveries in DNA science that are reshaping how we prevent and treat disease.
- 12:33 – The Future of Genomic Medicine
AI, precision medicine, and next-gen gene therapies—what’s coming in the next decade.
- 14:27 – How to Use Genomic Reports
How to decode your DNA report and take actionable steps based on your genetics.
- 38:25 – Mitochondria & Longevity
The genetic factors behind mitochondrial function and why they matter for aging and energy.
- 42:40 – BH4 & Mental Health
A little-known genetic pathway that plays a key role in mood, focus, and neurotransmitter balance.
- 43:42 – Folinic Acid & Brain Function
The critical connection between folinic acid and cognitive health—and who needs to supplement.
- 44:37 – Genomics & Autism
How genetic variations influence autism risk and the emerging role of personalized interventions.
- 46:06 – Personalized Medicine
Why one-size-fits-all medicine is outdated—and how genomics is changing the game.
- 56:00 – APOE4 & Alzheimer’s Risk
The truth about APOE4, genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s, and what you can do about it.
- 59:44 – Genetics & Heart Health
How DNA affects cardiovascular health, inflammation, and the real story behind cholesterol.
- 01:04:54 – The Future of Precision Medicine
How AI and genomics are merging to create hyper-personalized health solutions.
- 01:20:23 – Conclusion & Next Steps
Final thoughts on DNA-driven biohacking and how to start optimizing your genetics today.
Resources:
- Dave Asprey’s New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated/
- IntellxxDNA Website: https://intellxxdna.com/asprey/
- 2025 Biohacking Conference: https://biohackingconference.com/2025
- Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com
- Dave Asprey’s Website: https://daveasprey.com
- Dave Asprey’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/daveasprey
- Upgrade Collective – Join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com
- Own an Upgrade Labs: https://ownanupgradelabs.com
- Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com
- 40 Years of Zen – Neurofeedback Training for Advanced Cognitive Enhancement: https://40yearsofzen.com
Enjoy the show!
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