From the Guidelines
SAMe is not recommended as a primary treatment for MTHFR mutation, and instead, folate and B vitamins are suggested to normalize homocysteine levels. The use of SAMe in treating MTHFR mutations is not directly supported by the provided evidence, which focuses on the management of stroke in infants and children 1. However, it is known that MTHFR mutations can lead to impaired methylation processes, and SAMe plays a crucial role in these processes.
Key Considerations
- The provided study 1 recommends giving folate and B vitamins to individuals with an MTHFR mutation to normalize homocysteine levels.
- There is no direct mention of SAMe in the provided evidence, but it is understood that SAMe supports methylation processes that may be impaired in individuals with MTHFR mutations.
- Typical dosages of SAMe for other conditions range from 400-1600 mg daily, but this is not specifically recommended for MTHFR mutations in the provided evidence.
Important Notes
- SAMe works by directly providing methyl groups that individuals with MTHFR mutations struggle to produce naturally.
- It is essential to use SAMe cautiously, especially in those with bipolar disorder, as it may trigger manic episodes, and it should always be taken under healthcare supervision, especially when combined with antidepressants or other medications.
- The MTHFR gene mutation reduces the body's ability to convert folate into its active form, which subsequently impairs the production of SAMe, a critical methyl donor for numerous biochemical reactions.
From the Research
Treatment of MTHFR Mutation
The provided studies do not directly address the use of SamE (S-adenosylmethionine) in the treatment of MTHFR mutation. However, they do discuss the importance of folate, vitamins B6 and B12 in lowering homocysteine concentrations for patients with MTHFR mutations.
Role of Folate and Vitamins
- Folate, vitamins B6 and B12 supplementation has been shown to decrease homocysteine levels in patients with MTHFR mutations 2.
- The MTHFR C677T polymorphism is associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, which can be reduced by supplementation with vitamin B12 and folic acid 3.
- Polymorphisms in the MTHFR gene have been associated with elevated serum total homocysteine levels, which can be influenced by folate and vitamin B12 deficiency 4, 5.
Genetic Counseling
- Genetic counselors may encounter questions regarding the significance of MTHFR polymorphisms in various clinical settings, including recurrent pregnancy loss, neural tube defects, and congenital anomalies 6.
- The presence of MTHFR polymorphisms, with and without mildly elevated levels of homocysteine, has been studied in relation to several multifactorial disorders, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodevelopmental disorders 6.
Unfortunately, there are no research papers provided that directly address the use of SamE in the treatment of MTHFR mutation.