- The MTHFR enzyme converts folate (vitamin B9) to its active form, 5-MTHF.
- Folate is used to create methyl groups, which cells use to synthesize neurotransmitters, detoxify toxicants, methylate DNA, and maintain a healthy heart.
- The common MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants lower enzyme function (up to ~70–80% for C677T homozygous, ~20% for A1298C homozygous), especially when folate is limited.
- You don’t need expensive testing for MTHFR; you can check your C677T and A1298C SNPs in 23andMe, AncestryDNA, or similar raw data files.
- Optimizing your diet and nutrient intake to align with your genetic variants may help to improve overall wellness and healthy aging.
If you’re not a Genetic Lifehacks member, you’re missing out! Members are seeing their genotype report here. They are also reading the solutions in the Lifehacks section. Consider joining today.
What is the MTHFR gene?
MTHFR is a central gene in the methylation cycle and is a limiting factor for producing methyl groups from folate (vitamin B9). Specifically, the MTHFR gene codes for an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase that turns folate into the active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate. This enzyme, along with the active form of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin), drives an essential portion of the methylation cycle. Common genetic variants, called MTHFR C677T and A1298C, affect how the enzyme works and impact the availability of methyl groups.[ref] Genetic variants are variations in the DNA sequence that can influence the function of a gene or the protein it encodes.Which DNA tests cover MTHFR?
You don’t need expensive or specialized testing to find out your MTHFR status. The MTHFR genetic variants are available in 23andMe and AncestryDNA raw data files, which are free to download if you’ve done a test with them. Here’s a quick list of inexpensive testing options:- 23andMe
- AncestryDNA
- MyHeritage
- Sequencing .com
- SelfDecode
- MyGene Food
- TellMeGen
Logged-in Genetic Lifehacks members are viewing details on their MTHFR variants right here. Log in or Join now.
MTHFR: Key role in the methylation cycle
The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that is a key part of the methylation cycle. Methylation is the addition and removal of a methyl group (-CH3) to amino acids, DNA, and other enzymes or proteins. Within the methylation cycle, folate can be used to donate a methyl group that is used by SAMe for methylation reactions. This is a cycle that also involves homocysteine (which we will come back to in a minute).Related article: Methylation cycle report (MTHFR, COMT, B12, and more)
Methyl groups are used to:
Let’s look at each of these:
1. Forming new molecules:
Most of the molecules in our body are chains of hydrocarbons — carbons plus hydrogens. So adding a methyl group, a carbon plus three hydrogens, stacks on one more link in a hydrocarbon chain. The methyl group changes the original molecule into something different. A methyl group makes the molecule non-polar, which means that it isn’t able to mix with water and instead can pass through lipid membranes more easily.
Example: The synthesis of melatonin involves methylation
A methyl group is added to serotonin in the two-step process that forms melatonin.
- Form new molecules, including neurotransmitters
- Control DNA gene expression (turn on and off genes)
- Detoxify certain substances

The MTHFR C677T and A1298C variants:
Two common variants in the MTHFR gene, C677T and A1298C, cause the enzyme not to function normally. Let’s look at what this means and the implications for your health. Understanding the terminology: The MTHFR C677T variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). A SNP is a variation in a single nucleotide base pair (the As, Cs, Gs, and Ts) that differs from the typical nucleotide at that spot in the gene for part of the population. Similarly, A1298C is another SNP in the MTHFR gene. Both MTHFR C677T and MTHFR A1298C are common variants (SNPs). Both polymorphisms are found in approximately half the population. The substitution of a different nucleotide – the A instead of a G – makes the MTHFR enzyme function a little differently.| Variant/SNP | Genotype | Enzyme function effect | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| C677T (rs1801133) | G/G | Typical | No major reduction in activity. |
| C677T (rs1801133) | A/G | ~35–40% decreased | Thermolabile enzyme; more sensitive to low folate. |
| C677T (rs1801133) | A/A | ~70–80% decreased | Strongest impact on folate-dependent methylation. |
| A1298C (rs1801131) | T/T | Typical | No major reduction. |
| A1298C (rs1801131) | G/T | Slightly decreased | Mild effect alone. |
| A1298C (rs1801131) | G/G | ~20% decreased | Moderate reduction. |
| Compound C677T + A1298C | A/G + G/T | ~50% decreased | One copy of each |
- One copy of the C677T variant reduces enzyme function by about 35-40%.
- Two copies (homozygous) cause a ~70% reduction in enzyme function.
Research studies on MTHFR C677T or A1298C variants:
Having an MTHFR variant increases the relative risk (not certainty!) of many chronic diseases, but this does not mean it will cause you to have that disease. According to multiple meta-analyses, MTHFR C677T and A1298C increase the relative risk for high homocysteine, cardiovascular disease, stroke, neural tube defects, certain pregnancy issues, depression, migraines, and some neuropsychiatric conditions, especially with low folate/B vitamins.[ref] These same variants can lower the risk for certain conditions as well, illustrating tradeoffs of both positive and negative effects. Importantly, dietary changes or supplemental vitamins can eliminate many of the problems associated with the MTHFR variants. The MTHFR gene is extremely well researched, with over 6,000 studies investigating the C677T variant. There is also a lot of misinformation and hype about MTHFR, so this article sticks just to the high-quality studies on the topic. Studies show that the C667T and A1298C variants increase the relative risk:- high homocysteine, stroke, and heart disease[ref][ref][ref][ref][ref]
- neural tube defects and cleft lip[ref]
- preeclampsia and hypertension in pregnancy[ref][ref]
- miscarriage[ref][ref]
- depression or anxiety[ref][ref][ref][ref][ref]
- Alzheimer’s and dementia (C677T only and small increase according to 2026 meta-analysis)[ref][ref]
- autism spectrum disorder (C677T only according to 2026 meta-analysis)[ref]
- rare problems with nitrous oxide[ref], but most have no problems[ref]
Studies on MTHFR variants show:
1. Depression and the MTHFR Gene Variants: A1298C and C677T
- A meta-analysis of 26 studies found that the MTHFR C677T variant was associated with an increased risk of depression.[ref] Age and gender may also play a role here. Postmenopausal women who carried the C677T variant had a 2 to 3-fold increased risk of depression.[ref]
- Women with two copies of the A1298C variant were at twice the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD). The risk of MDD was even higher in people who also had COMT slow (MET) alleles. (read about COMT)[ref]
Related article with more details: MTHFR: depression and anxiety
2. High Homocysteine with MTHFR variants:
The methylation cycle also controls the level of homocysteine, an important marker of heart disease risk. It is also involved in cholesterol levels.[ref] Genetic variants in the methylation pathway, including MTHFR, are strongly linked to high homocysteine levels and heart disease in many studies. For example, a study in acute coronary syndrome patients showed that MTHFR C677T increased severity as well as homocysteine levels. High homocysteine is also linked to increased blood clots.[ref][ref][ref][ref]Related article: Homocysteine- Genetics and Solutions
3. Increased risk of heart disease
Studies show a link between MTHFR C677T and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. For example, a meta-analysis found that two copies of the MTHFR C677T variant (A/A, homozygous) increase the relative risk of heart disease by 38%.[ref][ref] However, not all studies agree, and a large prospective study (n=6,000) found that older people with two copies of the C677T allele were at a 30% decreased risk of death from cardiovascular disease when other parameters were included.[ref] The increased risk is not just due to high homocysteine. People with the C677T variant (AG or AA) have reduced endothelial function, even when homocysteine levels are normalized by increasing folate intake. The endothelium is the lining of blood vessels, and endothelial function controls how the blood vessels relax or contract to control blood pressure.[ref][ref]Related article: MTHFR, riboflavin, and reducing high blood pressure
4. Pregnancy, infertility, and MTHFR:
One of the first researched links to MTHFR variants was neural tube defects in infants. Babies need folate for the spinal column to develop fully, and the MTHFR variants increase the risk of problems.[ref] This is why prenatal vitamins contain folate and why folic acid is added to white rice and white flour.Related article: MTHFR, pregnancy, and infertility
5. Breakdown of estrogen, interaction with histamine:
Additionally, the methylation pathway involves the regulation of hormones, such as estrogen, and plays a role in histamine levels through breaking down high histamine.Related article: Histamine metabolism and estrogen receptors
6. Migraines
Numerous studies show that MTHFR variants are linked to a significantly increased risk of migraines. Some studies indicate that the risk is also due to higher homocysteine levels[ref], while other studies show that it may be due to the methylation of certain genes.[ref] Meta-analyses showed that the MTHFR C677T variant increased the risk of migraines with aura for all population ancestry groups. In non-Caucasians, the C677T variant increased migraine risk by 3-fold.[ref][ref] In North Indians, the A1298C variant was associated with the risk of migraines.[ref]Related article: Getting to the root genetic cause of migraines
7. Detoxification and MTHFR
A methyl group is needed in the detoxification reaction for arsenic. The enzyme (arsenite methyltransferase) that metabolizes arsenic depends on the availability of methyl groups. The C677T variant is linked to decreased arsenic detoxification and increased skin lesions with exposure.[ref][ref]Related article: Arsenic detoxification genes
Additionally, methylation is important in detoxifying mercury. In fact, MTHFR variants are tentatively linked to being more likely to have problems detoxifying mercury (small study).[ref][ref]Related article: Mercury detoxification genes
8. Alzheimer’s and dementia risk for C677T
A 2026 meta-analysis pooled 26 studies across ethnicities to see how MTHFR variants affect Alzheimer’s and dementia risk. The results showed that the MTHFR C677T T allele increases the relative risk of both Alzheimer’s and dementia a little bit. There was no increased risk for carriers of the A1298C variant. This meta-analysis is useful because it is larger, across multiple studies, and across multiple ancestry groups.[ref]Tradeoffs! Positive benefits of MTHFR SNPs
You may wonder why MTHFR variants – with such negative effects – are so common. It seems like a variant that should have been weeded out with natural selection. For common genetic variants, there is almost always a positive effect that balances the negatives. Plus, there are interactions between our modern world The big positive for MTHFR C677T is that it protects against several common types of cancer. Folate is needed for cell growth, especially fast-dividing cancer cells, and the decrease in folate with MTHFR variants can protect against growth in fast-growing tumors. Studies finding protective effects against cancer:- A meta-analysis found that two copies of the C677T variant (AA genotype) decrease the risk of colon cancer by about 20%![ref]
- Another meta-analysis found that two copies of the C677T variant (AA genotype) were protective against prostate cancer.[ref]
- The MTHFR C677T variant decreases the relative risk of retinoblastoma and oral squamous cell cancer.[ref][ref]
- Two copies of the C677T variant (AA genotype) are protective against gastric cancer.[ref]
| Variant | Increased Risks | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| C677T | Heart disease, stroke, neural tube defects, | ↓ Colon, prostate, gastric cancer |
| depression, migraines, pregnancy complications | ||
| A1298C | Migraines, depression (with two copies) | ↓ Hypothyroidism |
Gene expression and MTHFR:
MicroRNAs are short strands of RNA that can bind to an mRNA strand and block it from being translated into its protein. In cell studies, folate deficiency upregulates miR-22 and miR-149. These two miRNAs bind to the MTHFR mRNA and keep it from being turned into the MTHFR enzyme when folate is lacking. Interestingly, the effects of folate deficiency regulate miRNA differently in cancer cells vs. non-cancerous cells. Those same miRNAs also affect tumor suppressor genes.[ref] While a lot more research is needed here, the impact of miRNA on both tumor suppressors and MTHFR may be part of why folate is both beneficial for preventing cancer and then detrimental during some types of cancer.Lifehacks: Diet and Supplements for MTHFR
Knowing that you carry an MTHFR genetic variant can help guide your choice of foods and supplements. By optimizing your diet, you can easily mitigate the risks from the MTHFR variants.[ref] Let’s explore some diet and supplement options for individuals with MTHFR variants.Access this content:
An active subscription is required to access this content.
Digging deeper: MTHFR is more than just C677T and A1298C
While the C677T and A1298C are the most well-studied variants, there are several other genetic variants in the MTHFR gene that either increase or decrease the enzyme’s function.Genotype report: Additional MTHFR variants
Additional variants to check that decrease MTHFR enzyme function:
Access this content:
An active subscription is required to access this content.
Related B Vitamins and Methylation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About MTHFR:
What is the MTHFR gene, and what does it do?
The MTHFR gene codes for an enzyme (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) that converts folate (vitamin B9) into its active form. Why it matters: This process produces methyl groups used for:- DNA methylation (gene regulation)
- Neurotransmitter synthesis (brain health)
- Detoxification (removing toxins)
- Heart health (managing homocysteine)
What are the most common MTHFR variants?
The two most common variants are C677T and A1298C. These are single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), not rare mutations, and are found in about half the population.How can I check if I have an MTHFR variant?
You don’t need expensive genetic testing. You can check your raw data from 23andMe or AncestryDNA for the C677T (rs1801133) and A1298C (rs1801131) SNPs.What do the C677T and A1298C results mean for enzyme function?
C677T:- G/G: typical function
- A/G: enzyme function decreased by ~40%
- A/A: enzyme function decreased by 70–80%
- T/T: typical function
- G/T: slightly decreased function
- G/G: enzyme function decreased by ~20%
Are there other MTHFR variants that matter?
Yes, variants like G1793A (rs2274976) can also significantly decrease enzyme function, while others, such as rs9651118 and rs13306560, are associated with positive health outcomes like lower blood pressure or reduced risk of certain diseases.How do MTHFR variants affect my health?
Variants like C677T and A1298C can reduce enzyme efficiency, potentially leading to higher homocysteine levels and impacting processes like detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cardiovascular health.What can I do if I have an MTHFR variant?
Optimizing your diet is key. Increase intake of natural folate (leafy greens, lentils, liver, asparagus, broccoli), choline (egg yolks, beef liver, wheat germ), and betaine (beets, quinoa, spinach). These nutrients can help mitigate the risks associated with reduced enzyme function.Is folate the same as folic acid?
No. Folate is the natural form found in foods, while folic acid is a synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. Not everyone with MTHFR variants processes folic acid efficiently, so focus on natural food sources of folate.Can increasing dietary folate help with MTHFR?
Yes. Studies show that increasing folate-rich foods can lower homocysteine and inflammatory markers, especially in people with the C677T variant.Do MTHFR variants affect both men and women?
Yes. For example, MTHFR variants in fathers can also affect fertility and miscarriage risk Dads and MTHFR.Should I get MTHFR testing done?
Understanding your MTHFR variants can help you dial in your diet and prevent many age-related chronic conditions. Fortunately, the MTHFR SNPs are readily available in your raw data if you’ve already done genetic testing, such as through 23andMe or AncestryDNA.What should I eat if I have MTHFR C677T?
Optimizing your diet to include plenty of natural sources of folate helps to mitigate the negative effects of the MTHFR variants. Folate-rich foods include leafy greens, lentils, many green vegetables, and liver. Vitamin B12 is also important, along with other B vitamins. Vitamin B12 is only found in animal-based foods, so people eating a primarily vegan diet may need to consider supplementing with a B-complex. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about this.What does compound heterozygous mean?
When an article on MTHFR mentions ‘compound heterozygous’, it refers to having one copy of the MTHFR C677T variant and one copy of the A1298C variant. This combination reduces the efficiency of the folate-related enzyme by about 50% and makes it important to consume plenty of folate-rich foods in the diet.Is MTHFR dangerous?
While the variants in MTHFR increase the relative risk of several chronic conditions, they do not cause a specific disease on their own. Instead, it is a combination of diet and environment, which interacts with increased susceptibility due to the MTHFR variants. Recap of your genes:| Gene | RS ID | Your Genotype | Notes for Your Genotype | Effect allele | Effect allele frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTHFR | rs1801133 | — | typicalone copy of MTHFR C677T allele, enzyme function decreased by 40%two copies of MTHFR C677T, enzyme function decreased by 70 – 80% | A | 0.33 |
| MTHFR | rs1801131 | — | typicalone copy of MTHFR A1298C (heterozygous), slightly decreased enzyme function by ~10-20%two copies of MTHFR A1298C (homozygous), decreased enzyme by about 20-30% | G | 0.3 |
| MTHFR | rs2274976 | — | typicalsomewhat increased risk of schizophrenia, cognitive issues possible for seniors with this genotype in conjunction with low vitamin B12associated with cleft lip, neural tube defect, higher homocysteine, and folate deficiency, increased risk of schizophrenia in children, cognitive issues possible for seniors with this genotype in conjunction with low vitamin B12, risk of lower bone mineral density if B12 is also low | T | 0.04 |
| MTHFR | rs4846048 | — | typicalincreased relative risk of cervical cancer through miR-522 interactionincreased relative risk of cervical cancer through miR-522 interaction | G | 0.3 |
| MTHFR | rs9651118 | — | most common genotypedecreased risk of liver cancer, slower cognitive decline in the elderly, lower homocysteine, type 2 diabetes (compared to T/T)decreased risk of lung cancer, lower homocysteine, type 2 diabetes (compared to T/T) | C | 0.2 |
| MTHFR | rs13306560 | — | typicalavg 2.6 mmHg lower diastolic blood pressureavg 5.2 mmHg lower diastolic blood pressure, protective against Parkinson’s | T | 0.05 |
| MTHFR | rs17367504 | — | typicalprotective against hypertension, preeclampsiaprotective against hypertension, preeclampsia | G | 0.14 |
| MTHFR | rs4846049 | — | decreased risk of migraines, lower relative risk of cervical cancertypicaltypical, most common genotype | G | 0.61 |
Related Articles and Topics:
Histamine Intolerance, MTHFR, and the Methylation Cycle
References:
References
Abhinand, P. A., Manikandan, M., Mahalakshmi, R., & Ragunath, P. K. (2017). Meta-analysis study to evaluate the association of MTHFR C677T polymorphism with risk of ischemic stroke. Bioinformation, 13(6), 214–219. https://doi.org/10.6026/97320630013214
Abhinand, P. A., Shaikh, F., Bhakat, S., Radadiya, A., Bhaskar, L. V. K. S., Shah, A., & Ragunath, P. K. (2016). Insights on the structural perturbations in human MTHFR Ala222Val mutant by protein modeling and molecular dynamics. Journal of Biomolecular Structure & Dynamics, 34(4), 892–905. https://doi.org/10.1080/07391102.2015.1057866
Adaikalakoteswari, A., Finer, S., Voyias, P. D, McCarthy, C. M., Vatish, M., Moore, J., Smart-Halajko, M., Bawazeer, N., Al-Daghri, N. M., McTernan, P. G., Kumar, S., Hitman, G. A., Saravanan, P., & Tripathi, G. (2015). Vitamin B12 insufficiency induces cholesterol biosynthesis by limiting S-adenosylmethionine and modulating the methylation of SREBF1 and LDLR genes. Clinical Epigenetics, 7(1), 14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13148-015-0046-8
Aneji, C. N., Northrup, H., & Au, K. S. (2012). Deep sequencing study of the MTHFR gene to identify variants associated with myelomeningocele. Birth Defects Research. Part A, Clinical and Molecular Teratology, 94(2), 84–90. https://doi.org/10.1002/bdra.22884
Austin, D., Gondalia, S., Knowles, S., Palombo, E., Shandley, K., Spolding, B., & Walder, K. (2014). Genetic variation associated with hypersensitivity to mercury. Toxicology International, 21(3), 236. https://doi.org/10.4103/0971-6580.155327
Barbosa, A., Dos Santos, M., de Podestá, J. R. V., Gouvêa, S. A., Von Zeidler, S. V., Louro, I. D., & Cordeiro-Silva, M. de F. (2016). Polymorphisms in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and cystathionine beta-synthase in oral cancer – A case-control study in southeastern brazilians. Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology, 82(5), 558–566. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjorl.2015.10.012
Bereket-Yücel, S. (2015). Creatine supplementation alters homocysteine level in resistance trained men. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness, 55(4), 313–319. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25853877/
Beydoun, M. A., Tajuddin, S. M., Shaked, D., Beydoun, H. A., Evans, M. K., & Zonderman, A. B. (2019). One-carbon metabolism gene polymorphisms are associated with cognitive trajectory among African-American adults. Neurobiology of Aging, 84, 238.e5-238.e18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.05.013
Bueno, O., Molloy, A. M., Fernandez-Ballart, J. D, García-Minguillán, C. J., Ceruelo, S., Ríos, L., Ueland, P. M., Meyer, K., & Murphy, M. M. (2016). Common polymorphisms that affect folate transport or metabolism modify the effect of the MTHFR 677C > T polymorphism on folate status. The Journal of Nutrition, 146(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.3945/jn.115.223685
Cai, C., Xiao, R., Van Halm-Lutterodt, N., Zhen, J., Huang, X., Xu, Y., Chen, S., & Yuan, L. (2016). Association of MTHFR, SLC19A1 genetic polymorphism, serum folate, vitamin B12 and HCY status with cognitive functions in Chinese adults. Nutrients, 8(10). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8100665
Carrizzo, A., Iside, C., Nebbioso, A., Carafa, V., Damato, A., Sciarretta, S., Frati, G., Di Nonno, F., Valenti, V., Ciccarelli, M., Venturini, E., Scioli, M., Di Pietro, P., Bucci, T., Giudice, V., Storto, M., Serio, B., Puca, A. A., Giugliano, G., … Vecchione, C. (2022). SIRT1 pharmacological activation rescues vascular dysfunction and prevents thrombosis in MTHFR deficiency. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS, 79(8), 410. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00018-022-04429-5
Chen, J., Yuan, L., Duan, Y. Q., Jiang, J. Q., Zhang, R., Huang, Z. J., & Xiao, X. R. (2014). Impact of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphisms and folate intake on the risk of gastric cancer and their association with Helicobacter pylori infection and tumor site. Genetics and Molecular Research : GMR, 13(4), 9718–9726. https://doi.org/10.4238/2014.January.24.2
Choi, Y., Kim, J. O., Shim, S. H., Lee, Y., Kim, J. H., Jeon, Y. J., Ko, J. J., Lee, W. S., & Kim, N. K. (2016). Genetic variation of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and thymidylate synthase (TS) genes is associated with idiopathic recurrent implantation failure. PLOS ONE, 11(8), e0160884. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0160884
Courtemanche, C., Huang, A. C., Ilan Elson-Schwab, Kerry, N., Ng, B. Y., & Ames, B. N. (2003). Folate deficiency and ionizing radiation cause DNA breaks in primary human lymphocytes: A comparison. The FASEB Journal, 18(1), 209–211. https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.03-0382fje
de Aquino, S. N., Hoshi, R., Bagordakis, E., Pucciarelli, M. G. R., Messetti, A. C., Moreira, H., Bufalino, A., Borges, A., Rangel, A. L., Brito, L. A., Oliveira Swerts, M. S., Martelli-Junior, H., Line, S. R., Graner, E., Reis, S. R. A., Passos-Bueno, M. R., & Coletta, R. D. (2014). MTHFR RS2274976 polymorphism is a risk marker for nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate in the Brazilian population. Birth Defects Research. Part A, Clinical and Molecular Teratology, 100(1), 30–35. https://doi.org/10.1002/bdra.23199
Donnenfeld, M., Deschasaux, M., Latino-Martel, P., Diallo, A., Galan, P., Hercberg, S., Ezzedine, K., & Touvier, M. (2015). Prospective association between dietary folate intake and skin cancer risk: Results from the supplémentation en vitamines et minéraux antioxydants cohort. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 102(2), 471–478. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.115.109041
El-Hadidy, M. A., Abdeen, H. M., Abd El-Aziz, S. M., & Al-Harrass, M. (2014). MTHFR gene polymorphism and age of onset of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. BioMed Research International, 2014. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/318483
Friedman, G., Goldschmidt, N., Friedlander, Y., Ben-Yehuda, A., Selhub, J., Babaey, S., Mendel, M., Kidron, M., & Bar-On, H. (1999). A common mutation A1298C in human methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene: Association with plasma total homocysteine and folate concentrations. The Journal of Nutrition, 129(9), 1656–1661. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/129.9.1656
Gabriela Nielsen, M., Congiu, C., Bortolomasi, M., Bonvicini, C., Bignotti, S., Abate, M., Milanesi, E., Conca, A., Cattane, N., Tessari, E., Gennarelli, M., & Minelli, A. (2015). MTHFR: Genetic variants, expression analysis and COMT interaction in major depressive disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 183, 179–186. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2015.05.003
Ganz, A. B., Shields, K., Fomin, V. G., Lopez, Y. S., Mohan, S., Lovesky, J., Chuang, J. C., Ganti, A., Carrier, B., Yan, J., Taeswuan, S., Cohen, V. V., Swersky, C. C., Stover, J. A., Vitiello, G. A., Malysheva, O. V., Mudrak, E., & Caudill, M. A. (2016). Genetic impairments in folate enzymes increase dependence on dietary choline for phosphatidylcholine production at the expense of betaine synthesis. The FASEB Journal, 30(10), 3321–3333. https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.201500138RR
García, S., Cano-Martínez, L. J., Coral-Vázquez, R. M., Coronel-Perez, A., Gómez-Díaz, B., Toledo-Lozano, C. G., Gallegos-Arreola, M. P., Dávila-Maldonado, L., Jimenez-Hernández, D. A., Alcaraz-Estrada, S. L., & López-Hernández, L. B. (2017). Analysis of the RS13306560 functional variant in the promoter region of the MTHFR gene in sporadic Parkinson´s disease. Neuro Endocrinology Letters, 38(4), 257–260. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28871711/
García-Minguillán, C. J., Fernandez-Ballart, J. D, Ceruelo, S., Ríos, L., Bueno, O., Berrocal-Zaragoza, M. I., Molloy, A. M., Ueland, P. M., Meyer, K., & Murphy, M. M. (2014). Riboflavin status modifies the effects of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) polymorphisms on homocysteine. Genes & Nutrition, 9(6), 435. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12263-014-0435-1
Guo, S., Jiang, X., Chen, X., Chen, L., Li, X., & Jia, Y. (2015). The protective effect of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism against prostate cancer risk: Evidence from 23 case-control studies. Gene, 565(1), 90–95. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gene.2015.03.067
He, Y., Shi, Y., Hu, J., Wang, X., Su, J., Yang, Z., Zhang, Z., Liao, S., Lu, X., & Zhu, X. (2026). MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms in dementia susceptibility: Evidence from a meta-analytic investigation with disease-specific and ethnicity-stratified analyses. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 18. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2026.1858837
Husemoen, L. L. N., Skaaby, T., Jørgensen, T., Thuesen, B. H., Fenger, M., Grarup, N., Sandholt, C. H., Hansen, T., Pedersen, O., & Linneberg, A. (2014). MTHFR C677T genotype and cardiovascular risk in a general population without mandatory folic acid fortification. European Journal of Nutrition, 53(7), 1549–1559. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-014-0659-2
Hustad, S., Schneede, J., & Ueland, P. M. (2013). Riboflavin and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase. In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Landes Bioscience. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK6145/
Jacques, P. F., Bostom, A. G., Williams, R. R., Ellison, R. C., Eckfeldt, J. H., Rosenberg, I. H., Selhub, J., & Rozen, R. (1996). Relation between folate status, a common mutation in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and plasma homocysteine concentrations. Circulation, 93(1), 7–9. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.cir.93.1.7
Jadavji, N. M., Emmerson, J. T., MacFarlane, A. J., Willmore, W. G., & Smith, P. D. (2017). B-vitamin and choline supplementation increases neuroplasticity and recovery after stroke. Neurobiology of Disease, 103, 89–100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nbd.2017.04.001
Kang, M., Kim, J. W., Lee, J. H., Kim, L. H., Park, W., Kang, S. H., Park, Y. S., Kim, J.-W., Oh, H. J., Ahn, S.-H., Suh, Y.-S., Park, D. J., Lee, H. S., Kim, H.-H., & Lee, K.-W. (2026). MTHFR polymorphism is associated with increased adverse events and poor clinical outcomes in gastric cancer patients with adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy. Scientific Reports. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38429-3
Kaur, S., Ali, A., Pandey, A. K., & Singh, B. (2018). Association of MTHFR gene polymorphisms with migraine in north Indian population. Neurological Sciences : Official Journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 39(4), 691–698. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-018-3276-7
Khosravi, M., Sotoudeh, G., Amini, M., Raisi, F., Mansoori, A., & Hosseinzadeh, M. (2020). The relationship between dietary patterns and depression mediated by serum levels of folate and vitamin B12. BMC Psychiatry, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-2455-2
Klaus Pietrzik, & Thorand, B. (1997). Folate economy in pregnancy. Nutrition, 13(11–12), 975–977. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0899-9007(97)00340-7
Ledowsky, C., Scarf, V., Rogers, K., & Steel, A. (2026). Feasibility of a randomized clinical trial comparing 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and folic acid prenatal multivitamins in couples with recurrent pregnancy loss. Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.), 146, 68–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2025.12.008
Li, A., Shi, Y., Xu, L., Zhang, Y., Zhao, H., Li, Q., Zhao, X., Cao, X., Zheng, H., & He, Y. (2017). A possible synergistic effect of MTHFR C677T polymorphism on homocysteine level variations increased risk for ischemic stroke. Medicine, 96(51), e9300. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000009300
Li, M.-N., Wang, H.-J., Zhang, N.-R., Xuan, L., Shi, X.-J., Zhou, T., Chen, B., Zhang, J., & Li, H. (2017). MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and the severity of coronary lesions in acute coronary syndrome. Medicine, 96(49), e9044. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000009044
Li, W.-X., Dai, S.-X., Zheng, J.-J., Liu, J.-Q., & Huang, J.-F. (2015). Homocysteine metabolism gene polymorphisms (MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, MTR a2756g and MTRR A66G) jointly elevate the risk of folate deficiency. Nutrients, 7(8), 6670–6687. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7085303
Liew, S.-C., & Gupta, E. Das. (2015). Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism: Epidemiology, metabolism and the associated diseases. European Journal of Medical Genetics, 58(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejmg.2014.10.004
Lisboa, J. V. de C., Ribeiro, M. R., Luna, R. C. P., Lima, R. P. A., do Nascimento, R. A. F., Monteiro, M. G. C. A., Lima, K. Q. de F., Fechine, C. P. N. dos S., de Oliveira, N. F. P., Persuhn, D. C., Veras, R. C., Gonçalves, M. da C. R., Ferreira, F. E. L. de L., Lima, R. T., da Silva, A. S., Diniz, A. da S., de Almeida, A. T. C., de Moraes, R. M., Verly Junior, E., & Costa, M. J. de C. (2020). Food intervention with folate reduces TNF-α and interleukin levels in overweight and obese women with the MTHFR C677T polymorphism: A randomized trial. Nutrients, 12(2), 361. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12020361
Liu, C.-T., Karasik, D., Xu, H., Zhou, Y., Broe, K., Cupples, L. A., Cpgm de Groot, L., Ham, A., Hannan, M. T., Hsu, Y.-H., Jacques, P., McLean, R. R., Paul, L., Selhub, J., Trajanoska, K., van der Velde, N., van Schoor, N., & Kiel, D. P. (2021). Genetic variants modify the associations of concentrations of methylmalonic acid, vitamin B-12, vitamin B-6, and folate with bone mineral density. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 114(2), 578–587. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqab093
Liu, R., Geng, P., Ma, M., Yu, S., Yang, M., He, M., Dong, Z., & Zhang, W. (2014). MTHFR C677T polymorphism and migraine risk: A meta-analysis. Journal of the Neurological Sciences, 336(1–2), 68–73. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jns.2013.10.008
Lok, A., Bockting, C. L. H., Koeter, M. W. J., Snieder, H., Assies, J., Mocking, R. J. T., Vinkers, C. H., Kahn, R. S., Boks, M. P., & Schene, A. H. (2013). Interaction between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and traumatic childhood events predicts depression. Translational Psychiatry, 3, e288. https://doi.org/10.1038/tp.2013.60
Maurya, A. K., Srivastava, M., Vishwakarma, S., Ashish, A., Singh, N. K., Yadav, A. K., & Singh, R. (2025). Association of MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms in metabolic alterations, neuroimaging, and cognitive decline in alzheimer’s disease: Case–control and bioinformatics insights. Molecular Neurobiology, 63(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-025-05621-x
Moll, S., & Varga, E. A. (2015). Homocysteine and MTHFR mutations. Circulation, 132(1). https://doi.org/10.1161/circulationaha.114.013311
MTHFR gene: MedlinePlus genetics. (2018). Medlineplus. http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/MTHFR
Nagele, P., Brown, F., Francis, A., Scott, M. G., Gage, B. F., Miller, J. P., & VINO Study Team. (2013). Influence of nitrous oxide anesthesia, B-vitamins, and MTHFR gene polymorphisms on perioperative cardiac events: The vitamins in nitrous oxide (VINO) randomized trial. Anesthesiology, 119(1), 19–28. https://doi.org/10.1097/ALN.0b013e31829761e3
Nagele, P., Zeugswetter, B., Wiener, C., Burger, H., Hüpfl, M., Mittlböck, M., & Födinger, M. (2008). Influence of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphisms on homocysteine concentrations after nitrous oxide anesthesia. Anesthesiology, 109(1), 36–43. https://doi.org/10.1097/ALN.0b013e318178820b
National Institutes of Health. (2022). Office of Dietary Supplements – Folate. In Nih.gov. National Institutes of Health. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/
Nowak, I., Aleksandra Bylińska, Karolina Wilczyńska, Andrzej Wiśniewski, Malinowski, A., Wilczyński, J. R., Radwan, P., Radwan, M., Barcz, E., Rafał Płoski, Motak-Pochrzęst, H., Banasik, M., Maciej Sobczyński, & Piotr Kuśnierczyk. (2017). The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C.C.677 C>T and C.C.1298 a>C polymorphisms in reproductive failures: Experience from an RSA and RIF study on a Polish population. PLOS ONE, 12(10), e0186022–e0186022. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0186022
Oterino, A., Toriello, M., Valle, N., Castillo, J., Alonso-Arranz, A., Bravo, Y., Ruiz-Alegria, C., Quintela, E., & Pascual, J. (2010). The relationship between homocysteine and genes of folate-related enzymes in migraine patients. Headache, 50(1), 99–168. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2009.01484.x
Pan, Y., McDill, B., & Mooney, M. (2026). The contribution of ethnicity to the Association of MTHFR variants C677T and A1298C with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis. Brain Sciences, 16(1), 93. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16010093
Parajuli, R. P., Goodrich, J. M., Chan, H. M., Lemire, M., Ayotte, P., Hegele, R. A., & Basu, N. (2021). Variation in biomarker levels of metals, persistent organic pollutants, and omega-3 fatty acids in association with genetic polymorphisms among Inuit in Nunavik, Canada. Environmental Research, 200, 111393. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2021.111393
Rai, V. (2017). Association of C677T polymorphism (RS1801133) in MTHFR gene with depression. Cellular and Molecular Biology (Noisy-Le-Grand, France), 63(6), 60–67. https://doi.org/10.14715/cmb/2017.63.6.13
Rai, V., Yadav, U., Kumar, P., Sushil Kumar Yadav, & Gupta, S. (2017). Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase A1298C genetic variant& risk of schizophrenia: A meta-analysis. DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), 145(4), 437–447. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_745_14
Rozen, R. (1997). Genetic predisposition to hyperhomocysteinemia: Deficiency of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 78(01), 523–526. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0038-1657581
RS13306560. (2016a). Nih.Gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs13306560
RS17367504. (2016b). Nih.Gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs17367504
RS1801131. (2024). In Nih.gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs1801131
RS1801133 RefSNP report – dbSNP – NCBI. (n.d.). In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved August 17, 2026, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs1801133
RS2274976. (2016c). Nih.Gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs2274976
RS4846048. (2020). Nih.Gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs4846048
RS9651118. (2019). Nih.Gov. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/snp/rs9651118
Salehi, M., Amin-Beidokhti, M., Safarpour Lima, B., Gholami, M., Javadi, G.-R., & Mirfakhraie, R. (2018). The RS4846049 polymorphism in the 3’UTR region of the MTHFR gene increases the migraine susceptibility in an Iranian population. Journal of Pain Research, 11, 145–149. https://doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S152930
Samaan, Z., Gaysina, D., Cohen-Woods, S., Craddock, N., Jones, L., Korszun, A., Owen, M., Mente, A., McGuffin, P., & Farmer, A. (2011). Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene variant (MTHFR C677T) and migraine: A case control study and meta-analysis. BMC Neurology, 11, 66. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2377-11-66
Saraswathy, K. N., Asghar, M., Samtani, R., Murry, B., Mondal, P. R., Ghosh, P. K., & Sachdeva, M. P. (2011). Spectrum of MTHFR gene SNPs C677T and A1298C: A study among 23 population groups of India. Molecular Biology Reports, 39(4), 5025–5031. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-011-1299-8
Shaik, M. M., Tan, H. L., Kamal, M. A., & Gan, S. H. (2014). Do folate, vitamins B₆ and B₁₂ play a role in the pathogenesis of migraine? The role of pharmacoepigenomics. CNS & Neurological Disorders Drug Targets, 13(5), 828–835. https://doi.org/10.2174/18715273113129990112
Soleimani, E., Saliminejad, K., Akbari, M. T., Kamali, K., & Ahani, A. (2016). Association study of the common polymorphisms in the folate-methionine pathway with retinoblastoma. Ophthalmic Genetics, 37(4), 384–387. https://doi.org/10.3109/13816810.2015.1107596
Stead, L. M., Au, K. P., Jacobs, R. L., Brosnan, M. E., & Brosnan, J. T. (2001). Methylation demand and homocysteine metabolism: Effects of dietary provision of creatine and guanidinoacetate. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism, 281(5), E1095–E1100. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpendo.2001.281.5.e1095
Steinmaus, C., Moore, L. E., Shipp, M., Kalman, D., Rey, O. A., Biggs, M. L., Hopenhayn, C., Bates, M. N., Zheng, S., Wiencke, J. K., & Smith, A. H. (2007). Genetic polymorphisms in MTHFR 677 and 1298, GSTM1 and T1, and metabolism of arsenic. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 70(2), 159–170. https://doi.org/10.1080/15287390600755240
Swartz, M. D, Peterson, C. B., Lupo, P. J., Wu, X., Forman, M. R., Spitz, M. R., Hernandez, L. M., Vannucci, M., & Shete, S. (2013). Investigating multiple candidate genes and nutrients in the folate metabolism pathway to detect genetic and nutritional risk factors for lung cancer. PloS One, 8(1), e53475. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0053475
Słopien, R., Jasniewicz, K., Meczekalski, B., Warenik-Szymankiewicz, A., Lianeri, M., & Jagodziński, P. P. (2008). Polymorphic variants of genes encoding MTHFR, MTR, and MTHFD1 and the risk of depression in postmenopausal women in Poland. Maturitas, 61(3), 252–255. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2008.08.002
Taioli, E., Garza, M. A., Ahn, Y. O., Bishop, D. T., Bost, J., Budai, B., Chen, K., Gemignani, F., Keku, T., Lima, C. S. P., Le Marchand, L., Matsuo, K., Moreno, V., Plaschke, J., Pufulete, M., Thomas, S. B., Toffoli, G., Wolf, C. R., Moore, C. G., & Little, J. (2009). Meta- and pooled analyses of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and colorectal cancer: A HuGE-GSEC review. American Journal of Epidemiology, 170(10), 1207–1221. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kwp275
Tanwar, H., Sneha, P., Thirumal Kumar, D., Siva, R., Walter, C. E. J., & George Priya Doss, C. (2017). A computational approach to identify the biophysical and structural aspects of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutations (A222V, E429A, and R594Q) leading to schizophrenia. Advances in Protein Chemistry and Structural Biology, 108, 105–125. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.apcsb.2017.01.007
Thomsen, L. C. V., McCarthy, N. S., Melton, P. E., Cadby, G., Austgulen, R., Nygård, O. K., Johnson, M. P., Brennecke, S., Moses, E. K., Bjørge, L., & Iversen, A.-C. (2017). The antihypertensive MTHFR gene polymorphism rs17367504-G is a possible novel protective locus for preeclampsia. Journal of Hypertension, 35(1), 132–139. https://doi.org/10.1097/hjh.0000000000001131
Tomaszewski, M., Debiec, R., Braund, P. S., Nelson, C. P., Hardwick, R., Christofidou, P., Denniff, M., Codd, V., Rafelt, S., van der Harst, P., Waterworth, D., Song, K., Vollenweider, P., Waeber, G., Zukowska-Szczechowska, E., Burton, P. R., Mooser, V., Charchar, F. J., Thompson, J. R., … Samani, N. J. (2010). Genetic architecture of ambulatory blood pressure in the general population: Insights from cardiovascular gene-centric array. Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979), 56(6), 1069–1076. https://doi.org/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.110.155721
Troesch, B., Weber, P., & Mohajeri, M. H. (2016). Potential links between impaired one-carbon metabolism due to polymorphisms, inadequate B-vitamin status, and the development of alzheimer’s disease. Nutrients, 8(12), 803. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8120803
Turck, D., Bohn, T., Castenmiller, J., Stefaan De Henauw, Karen Ildico Hirsch-Ernst, Helle Katrine Knutsen, Alexandre Maciuk, Mangelsdorf, I., McArdle, H. J., Androniki Naska, Peláez, C., Siani, A., Thies, F., Tsabouri, S., Vinceti, M., Cubadda, F., José Cortiñas Abrahantes, Dumas, C., Ercolano, V., … Pentieva, K. (2022). Conversion of calcium‐l‐methylfolate and (6S)‐5‐methyltetrahydrofolic acid glucosamine salt into dietary folate equivalents. EFSA Journal, 20(8). https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7452
Undas, A., Brozek, J., & Szczeklik, A. (2005). Homocysteine and thrombosis: From basic science to clinical evidence. Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 94(5), 907–915. https://doi.org/10.1160/TH05-05-0313
Wan, L., Li, Y., Zhang, Z., Sun, Z., He, Y., & Li, R. (2018). Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and psychiatric diseases. Translational Psychiatry, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-018-0276-6
Wan, L., Li, Y., Zhou, Y., Li, R., & Zheng, Y. (2019). Age matters: An atypical association between polymorphism of MTHFR and clinical phenotypes in children with schizophrenia. Journal of Molecular Neuroscience : MN, 69(3), 485–493. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12031-019-01382-0
Wang, H., Hu, C., Xiao, S.-H., & Wan, B. (2014). Association of tagging SNPs in the MTHFR gene with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and serum homocysteine levels in a Chinese population. Disease Markers, 2014, 725731. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/725731
Wu, X., Yang, K., Tang, X., Sa, Y., Zhou, R., Liu, J., Luo, Y., & Tang, W. (2015). Folate metabolism gene polymorphisms MTHFR C677T and A1298C and risk for preeclampsia: A meta-analysis. Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, 32(5), 797–805. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-014-0408-8
Wu, Y.- Le, Ding, X.-X., Sun, Y.-H., Yang, H.-Y., Chen, J., Zhao, X., Jiang, Y.-H., Lv, X.-L., & Wu, Z.-Q. (2013). Association between mthfr C677T polymorphism and depression: An updated meta-analysis of 26 studies. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 46, 78–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.06.015
Xu, B., Kong, X., Xu, R., Song, Y., Liu, L., Zhou, Z., Gu, R., Shi, X., Zhao, M., Huang, X., He, M., Jia, F., Cai, Y., Li, P., Cheng, X., Wu, C., Chen, F., Zhang, Y., Tang, G., … Huo, Y. (2017). Homocysteine and all-cause mortality in hypertensive adults without pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Medicine, 96(8), e5862–e5862. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000005862
Yan, L., Zhao, L., Long, Y., Zou, P., Ji, G., Gu, A., & Zhao, P. (2012). Association of the maternal MTHFR C677T polymorphism with susceptibility to neural tube defects in offsprings: Evidence from 25 case-control studies. PLoS ONE, 7(10). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0041689
Yang, B., Fan, S., Zhi, X., Li, Y., Liu, Y., Wang, Da, He, M., Hou, Y., Zheng, Q., & Sun, G. (2014). Associations of MTHFR gene polymorphisms with hypertension and hypertension in pregnancy: A meta-analysis from 114 studies with 15411 cases and 21970 controls. PLoS ONE, 9(2), e87497. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0087497
Yang, Q., Bailey, L., Clarke, R., Flanders, W. D., Liu, T., Yesupriya, A., Khoury, M. J., & Friedman, J. M. (2012). Prospective study of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) variant C677T and risk of all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality among 6000 uS adults. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 95(5), 1245–1253. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.111.022384
Yang, R., Pu, D., Tan, R., & Wu, J. (2022). Association of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms (C677T and A1298C) with thyroid dysfunction: A meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. Archives of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 66(4), 551–581. https://doi.org/10.20945/2359-3997000000471
Zaric, B. L., Obradovic, M., Bajic, V., Haidara, M. A., Jovanovic, M., & Isenovic, E. R. (2019). Homocysteine and Hyperhomocysteinaemia. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 26(16), 2948–2961. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867325666180313105949
Zawieja, E., Drabińska, N., Jeleń, H., Szwengiel, A., Durkalec-Michalski, K., & Chmurzynska, A. (2024). Betaine supplementation modulates betaine concentration by methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotype, but has no effect on amino acid profile in healthy active males: A randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study. Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.), 127, 63–74. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2024.05.003
Zelicha, Hila, et al. “Effect of Green Mediterranean Diet on Serum Folate and Its Interaction with Genetic Variation in Folate Metabolism: The DIRECT PLUS 18-Month Dietary Randomized Controlled Trial.” Clinical Nutrition, vol. 63, Aug. 2026, p. 106701. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2026.106701.
Zhang, C., Chen, Y., Hou, F., Li, Y., Wang, W., Guo, L., Zhang, C., Li, L., & Lu, C. (2025). Safety and efficacy of high-dose folinic acid in children with autism: The impact of folate metabolism gene polymorphisms. Nutrients, 17(9), 1602. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091602
Zhang, D., Wen, X., Wu, W., Guo, Y., & Cui, W. (2015). Elevated homocysteine level and folate deficiency associated with increased overall risk of carcinogenesis: Meta-analysis of 83 case-control studies involving 35,758 individuals. PloS One, 10(5), e0123423. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0123423
Zhang, S., Lin, J., Jiang, J., Chen, Y., Tang, W., & Liu, L. (2019). Association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase tagging polymorphisms and susceptibility of hepatocellular carcinoma: A case–control study. Bioscience Reports, 39(11). https://doi.org/10.1042/bsr20192517
Zhou, B.-S., Bu, G.-Y., Li, M., Chang, B.-G., & Zhou, Y.-P. (2014). Tagging SNPs in the MTHFR gene and risk of ischemic stroke in a Chinese population. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 15(5), 8931–8940. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms15058931
Zhou, X., Shan, L., Na, J., Li, Y., & Wang, J. (2020). The SNP RS4846048 of MTHFR enhances the cervical cancer risk through association with miR-522: A preliminary report. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine, 8(1), e1055. https://doi.org/10.1002/mgg3.1055
About the Author:
Debbie Moon is a biologist, engineer, author, and the founder of Genetic Lifehacks where she has helped thousands of members understand how to apply genetics to their diet, lifestyle, and health decisions. With more than 10 years of experience translating complex genetic research into practical health strategies, Debbie holds a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. She combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to explain how genetic differences impact your optimal health.
Debbie Moon is a biologist, engineer, author, and the founder of Genetic Lifehacks where she has helped thousands of members understand how to apply genetics to their diet, lifestyle, and health decisions. With more than 10 years of experience translating complex genetic research into practical health strategies, Debbie holds a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. She combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to explain how genetic differences impact your optimal health.