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MTHFR Methylation Pathway

Meaning

The MTHFR Methylation Pathway is a critical biochemical process centered around the Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) enzyme, which converts the folate derivative 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate into the active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This active folate is the essential methyl donor for numerous vital physiological processes, including DNA synthesis and repair, neurotransmitter production, and the detoxification of homocysteine. Genetic variants in the MTHFR gene can impair the enzyme’s function, thereby compromising the efficiency of this entire metabolic pathway. Clinical intervention is often required to support optimal methylation capacity.