One of the significant roles of methylation is to help regulate genes. As you might recall from our previous lesson on genetics, gene expression is the process by which the information in genes is used to produce proteins and other biomolecules that carry out specific functions in the body. Gene expression is essentially when the information in our DNA is transformed to be ready for action in our body. Our bodies do not express all our genes at once; that would be chaos. In fact, a considerable part of our health and wellness is the ability to silence, or turn off, genes when appropriate.

Each cell in our body contains our genetic blueprint. We need it to perform a specific function depending on where that cell is located. Gene expression allows genetic information to switch on or off and enables molecules to function at precisely the right time and place. So, each cell in our body is only turning on a small percent of its genes at a time; the percent needed to perform a specific, timely function.

DNA methylation plays a critical role in gene regulation by controlling which genes are switched on or off, which is vital for normal development and body function.

Transferring methyl groups to various biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and other small molecules is vital to many biological processes. DNA methylation adds or removes methyl groups to specific parts of DNA. This process typically occurs at the position of the nucleotide cytosine in the promoter regions of genes. Adding methyl groups through DNA methylation helps regulate gene expression and the synthesis and breakdown of neurotransmitters, which are crucial chemicals that transmit signals in the brain.

The importance of DNA methylation extends beyond just the brain, as it is also vital for proper development in other organs. DNA methylation also plays a crucial role in maintaining the genome’s stability by preventing inappropriate gene expression changes that could lead to health problems.

In addition to these types of methylation, small molecule methylation involves adding methyl groups to small molecules such as neurotransmitters, hormones, and other signaling molecules. This process helps regulate the synthesis and breakdown of these molecules, which is crucial for maintaining overall health and wellness.

Several genetic mutations, or variations, can impact the body’s ability to complete the methylation processes. Roughly 30 to 50 percent of Americans may have genetically inefficient enzymes that help create 5-MTHF, the metabolically active form of folate.

For example, certain genetic variations may make an individual more prone to high homocysteine levels. This amino acid can adversely affect health when present at high levels in the blood. Inefficient methylation can lead to a buildup of homocysteine.

MTHFR stands for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the methylation process. The MTHFR mutation is a genetic variation that can affect an individual’s ability to methylate appropriately.

The MTHFR mutation is relatively common, with estimates suggesting that up to 50% of the population may have some form of the mutation. However, it is important to note that not all individuals with the MTHFR mutation will have methylation problems. The impact of the mutation can vary depending on the specific type of mutation and other genetic and environmental factors. This is a significant reason why NBX nutrigenomic testing recommendations are always based on looking at the overall impact of several key gene variations for each wellness concern.

In addition to the MTHFR mutation, other genetic mutations can contribute to a methylation deficiency. These include mutations in the FOLR1 (folate receptor 1), TCN1 (Transcobalamin 1), and MTR (methionine synthase) genes, amongst other vital genes that influence the efficiency of methylation.

When it comes to getting the essential vitamin B9, it’s important to remember that not all sources are created equal. Folate and folic acid are both forms of a B vitamin known as Vitamin B9. Folate is the natural form of B9, while folic acid is a synthetic form often added to low-quality supplements and fortified foods. Once absorbed, dietary (and supplemental) B9 has to undergo several biochemical conversions (methylation) in the body to become 5-MTHF. Many individuals may have difficulty converting folic acid to methylfolate, the active form of B9 needed to complete the methylation process.

There are a few notable differences between folate and folic acid. One difference is that folate is water-soluble, while folic acid is not. This means that folate is more easily absorbed by the body and can be excreted more easily than folic acid. Naturally occurring folate still needs to be converted into methylfolate (5-MTHF) in the body. The folic acid found in food must be methylated or cleaved from protein carriers to be absorbed. Natural sources of folate are more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. However, some people have a genetic mutation that may hinder the ability to convert folate into its active form.