We’re launching a new blog series that features each of our lab partners so that you can get to know them better! First one up is Quicksilver Scientific. We had a great conversation with Susan Drake, MS, RDN and Director of Practitioner Sales at Quicksilver Scientific. Read on to learn more about how it got started, a deep dive into heavy metal testing, and the technology behind their tests.
Introducing Quicksilver Scientific
Hi Susan! Great to chat with you! First off, where are y'all located?
We're based in Louisville, Colorado - right between Boulder and Denver!
As a leader in the functional medicine space, what is Quicksilver's main focus?
While most people know us for our high-quality supplements and detoxification protocols here at Quicksilver, we do have specialty testing as well! We have two Clinical Metals Tests – our patented Mercury Toxicity Testing and our Heavy Metals Testing.
How long have you been in business?
We've been in business 14 years!
Why was Quicksilver started?
Our founder, Dr. Shade was born in a toxic steel town, so he created Quicksilver Scientific to combat the environmental toxicity he personally experienced.
How did Dr. Shade get into functional testing?
He patented a mercury speciation diagnostic process to analyze human mercury toxicity. And in response, created Quicksilver Delivery Systems® nanoparticle technology to increase the bioavailability of specific detoxification compounds, nutraceuticals and protocols leading to higher efficacy products and detoxification capabilities without the prick of a needle.
That is incredible - very cool that the lab was born out of his own personal need and experiences!
Is Dr. Shade still involved with the development of new testing?
Yes! To this day, Dr. Shade develops all of our products and protocols and leads the R&D team at Quicksilver Scientific in both our lab and testing facility. He is extremely passionate about the topics of mercury, environmental toxicities, neuroinflammation, immune dysregulation, and the human detoxification system.
What technology do you use at Quicksilver? How does it work?
We specialize in advanced mercury speciation testing, using a patented test, the Mercury Tri-Test. This test utilizes samples of hair, blood, and urine to assess for the body’s mercury burden and its ability to eliminate it. The test helps practitioners and patients to understand the magnitude and source of mercury exposure, as well as if additional support is needed in the process of mercury detoxification.
The Mercury Tri-Test is the only clinical test that utilizes mercury speciation analysis, a patented advanced technology that separates methyl mercury (MeHg) from inorganic mercury (HgII) and measures each directly. Our instruments are sensitive enough to measure ambient mercury levels in the body without the need for challenge testing.
So, how does this help practitioners in their work with patients?
This test helps practitioners and patients to understand the magnitude and source of mercury exposure, as well as if additional support is needed in the process of mercury detoxification.
Can you give examples of how practitioners use the results from the heavy metals tests in diagnosing or treating patients?
This allows practitioners to assess the patient’s exposure sources, body burden, and ability to excrete each form of mercury. This detailed information helps build an informed picture and allows the clinician to plan a rational approach to a successful detoxification strategy for the patient.
What is your favorite part about being in this industry?
It's exciting to be in an industry that looks for the root cause of illness.
I agree! And it is why many of us get into this industry. Anything else interesting, funny, or noteworthy you’d like practitioners to know about your lab?
All of our products are created on-site at Quicksilver Scientific in our Louisville, Colorado, facility and all of our tests are processed here as well.
Also, Dr. Shade began his career in sustainability – including organic and biodynamic farming. That's right, Dr. Shade started his career as an organic farmer!
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