wie kann ich cortisol messen — can a DNA test help?

Cortisol cannot be measured directly by a DNA test because it is a hormone whose concentration is determined in blood, saliva, or urine. DNA tests can analyze genetic variants in genes such as NR3C1, FKBP5, or CRHR1, which are involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. However, these variants typically have small effect sizes and are not diagnostic. Clinical cortisol measurement is performed via saliva samples (e.g., morning/evening), blood, or 24-hour urine, often combined with a dexamethasone suppression test. A DNA test may indicate a rough genetic predisposition for altered stress response, but it cannot replace a hormone assay. The evidence for actionable predictions from single SNPs is weak. If you want to know your actual cortisol level, use a validated hormone test (e.g., diurnal salivary cortisol profile). Safety note: Suspected adrenal insufficiency or Cushing syndrome requires medical evaluation.