The DNA test for folate metabolism evaluates your body’s ability to metabolise folic acid and other forms of folate. Specifically, this test analyses the MTHFR C677T gene (Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase), which codes for an enzyme involved in converting folic acid into its active form, called 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).

The active form of folate is essential for DNA synthesis, cell repair, and neurotransmitter production. A reduced ability to metabolise folates can affect various aspects of health, such as the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy, cardiovascular issues, and other conditions linked to elevated homocysteine levels in the blood.

Folate metabolism is how our body uses vitamin B9 to perform important functions:

Absorption: When we eat foods rich in folates, like leafy greens, they are absorbed in the small intestine.

Conversion: Once absorbed, folates are converted into an active form called tetrahydrofolate (THF), which the body can use.

DNA Synthesis: THF helps produce DNA, essential for cell growth and division.

Red Blood Cell Formation: It also helps create red blood cells, which carry oxygen through the blood.

Amino Acid Metabolism: THF contributes to converting certain amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.

Methylation: Folates help regulate gene function by turning them on or off, ensuring proper cell function.

If there is not enough folate in the body, problems like anaemia (low healthy red blood cells) or, during pregnancy, foetal malformations may occur.

The MTHFR C677T variant is a genetic mutation that can make folate metabolism less efficient. People with this variant may have difficulty converting folic acid (the synthetic version of vitamin B9) and dietary folates into 5-MTHF, the active form the body uses. This can increase the risk of elevated homocysteine levels, linked to heart problems, and negatively affect the ability to metabolize folic acid.

How Our Test Works:

Green indicates that the variants identified in the analysis do not unfavourably alter the enzyme activity of the protein they encode and/or the risk associated with certain diseases. Orange indicates that the variants identified in the analysis slightly unfavourably alter enzyme activity and/or the risk associated with certain disorders or diseases. Red indicates that the variants identified in the analysis alter enzyme activity in a particularly unfavourable way, resulting in an increased risk of developing certain disorders or associated diseases.

Test Results Include analysis of the MTHFR C677T variant that influences folate metabolism. Please see the images for an extract of an example report.

Ingredients

The DNA Sample Collection Kit Contains - 2 x sterile mouth swabs (both swabs to be used for 1 person), welcome letter, step-by-step sample collection instructions, client registration form, consent form and return envelope.

Collect cheek cells by rolling the tip of the sample collection swab firmly on the inside of the right cheek and under the tongue for about 30 seconds. Be certain to move the swab over the entire inner cheek surface. This action should be firm but not aggressive and should not be uncomfortable. Light pressure is adequate. This procedure is totally painless. Repeat this process for the same individual with the second swab on the left cheek. Please contact us with any questions.