Can MTHFR cause depression?

Can MTHFR cause depression?

Mental health issues associated with a MTHFR mutation include depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Up to 40% of the population may have an MTHFR mutation of some kind. To reduce the risks associated with a MTHFR mutation, it’s important to speak to one’s health care provider.

How does MTHFR affect depression?

7 Recently, an increasing number of studies suggest screening for MTHFR polymorphisms in patients with depression. This proposal is based on demonstrated links between abnormal folate metabolism and high levels of homocysteine and an increased risk for MDD and reduced antidepressant effectiveness.

Does MTHFR affect serotonin?

What is MTHFR and why is it important? MTHFR is an enzyme required to convert folic acid into an active form called L-methylfolate that is usable by our bodies. L-methylfolate plays an important role in making neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which help regulate mood.

What is the best antidepressant for MTHFR?

L-methylfolate 15 mg/day added to SSRIs or as monotherapy can be an effective and well-tolerated treatment strategy for MDD patients who are partial or non-responders to antidepressant therapy. L-methylfolate may be particularly effective in patients with a C667 T homozygous mutation for MTHFR.

Does MTHFR cause low serotonin?

When you have decreased MTHFR function because of which gene variants you inherited, your body converts less dietary folate into active L-methylfolate. Ultimately, this means you have less of the raw material to make the mood neurotransmitters you need (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine).

Can MTHFR cause anxiety?

MTHFR mutations, for which at least 24 known genetic polymorphisms have been identified, are associated with metabolic dysfunction. They play a suspected role in several physiologic symptoms—including anxiety.

How does MTHFR affect the body?

At least 40 mutations in the MTHFR gene have been identified in people with homocystinuria, a disorder in which the body is unable to process homocysteine and methionine properly. People with this condition often develop eye problems, abnormal blood clotting, skeletal abnormalities, and learning problems.

What is the C677T mutation?

A common mutation, C677T, in the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) reduces the activity of MTHFR and increases total homocysteine levels in plasma. Increased homocysteine levels are reportedly associated with high serum uric acid levels.

How common is MTHFR C677T?

There are two common types, or variants, of MTHFR mutations: C677T and A1298C. These gene mutations are relatively common. In fact, in the United States, around 25% of people of Hispanic descent and 10–15% of people of Caucasian descent have two copies of C677T.