"Doctor, my folate metabolism test result has come back as TT type positive. Could this affect my baby?"

As part of the journey to prepare for a baby, expectant mothers are always keen to provide the most comprehensive nutritional support for their future child. Folate, a crucial B-vitamin, is known for its role in preventing neural tube defects and other congenital abnormalities. However, not all forms of folate are absorbed with the same efficiency by the body. In this discussion, we'll explore how variations in the MTHFR gene can affect folate metabolism and what personalized folate supplementation strategies are available for those planning a pregnancy.

Understanding Folate Metabolism

Let's begin by understanding the metabolic pathway of folate. The folate commonly consumed is synthetic folic acid, which the body must convert into the endogenous form, 6S-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, for absorption.

MTHFR (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a pivotal enzyme in the folate metabolism pathway, facilitating the conversion of folic acid into 6S-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, a process essential for cell growth and DNA synthesis. The C677T variant of the MTHFR gene, particularly in the homozygous TT form, diminishes the enzyme's activity, leading to a reduced capacity for folate metabolism. This can result in suboptimal folate levels and elevated homocysteine levels, increasing the risk of certain birth defects.

Decreased Enzyme Activity: The C677T mutation in the MTHFR gene alters the nucleotide from C to T, changing the 222nd amino acid in the polypeptide chain from alanine to valine. This modification significantly reduces MTHFR enzyme activity. Heterozygotes (CT type) exhibit 65% of the enzyme activity of the wild-type CC, while homozygous mutants (TT type) display only 30%.

Folate Metabolic Disorders: The reduced activity of the MTHFR enzyme limits the production of 6S-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF), impacting DNA methylation and synthesis. This can impede cell division and embryonic development.

Elevated Homocysteine Levels: As MTHFR is responsible for converting homocysteine to methionine, decreased enzyme activity results in increased homocysteine levels, associated with hyperhomocysteinemia.

MTHFR Polymorphism and Birth Defects

Studies have shown that mothers with the MTHFR TT genotype who have inadequate folate intake face increased risks for their babies, including:

• A 1.2 times higher risk of congenital heart disease compared to mothers with the CC genotype.
• A 2 times higher risk of neural tube defects.
• A 2.6 times higher risk of Down syndrome.
• A 5.9 times higher risk of cleft lip and palate for mothers with the MTHFR TT genotype who do not take folic acid before pregnancy.

MTHFR Mutations and Birth Defects

Understanding the desires to provide the best possible start for their baby, expectant mothers may feel concerned about the challenges in folate metabolism presented by the MTHFR TT genotype. Rest assured, modern medical advancements have provided solutions.

Personalized Folate Supplementation: Naturalization Folate

Given that synthetic folic acid must be converted into 6S-5-methyltetrahydrofolate for absorption, directly supplementing with 6S-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (active folate) can effectively bypass the limitations imposed by MTHFR enzyme variations.

During the prenatal period, it's crucial to provide the purest and safest care for the baby. Among the various forms of active folate, naturalization folate stands out for its safety. It is produced without harmful substances like formaldehyde and p-toluenesulfonic acid and strictly control the content of harmful impurities like JK12A and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate through patented technology, ensuring a virtually non-toxic level of safety. This allows you to enjoy the health benefits of folate without concerns.

Embrace naturalization folate as a caring companion during your prenatal journey. It will provide robust folate support for you and your baby in the purest and safest form, joining you in anticipating the arrival of new life. May this process be filled with joy and peace.

Naturalization Folate Certification

References:

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3.Willems FF, Boers GHJ, Blom HJ, Aengevaeren WRM, Verheugt FWA. Pharmacokinetic study on the utilisation of 5methyltetrahydrofolate and folic acid in patients with coronary artery disease. Br J Pharmacol. 2004;141(5):825-830.

4.Bailey SW, Ayling JE. The extremely slow and variable activity of dihydrofolate reductase in human liver and its implications for high folic acid intake. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2009;106(36):15424-15429.

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6. Scaglione F, Panzavolta G. Folate, folic acid and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate are not the same thing. Xenobiotica. 2014;44(5):480–488. doi:10.3109/00498254.2013.845705.