MTHFR Gene: The missing link for Depression, Fibromyalgia, IBS and more.

MTHFR is shorthand for a specific gene that codes for an enzyme called “Methyl Tetra Hydro Folate Reductase”. The web of biochemical reactions in the body is dense and complex, but there are a few spots that are what I would call “bottlenecks” where a single “wrench” shuts down many “engines”. This particular enzyme (MTHFR), is responsible for a process called “methylation”. It is most well known for changing homocystiene into methionine. The MTHFR enzyme is also involved indirectly in the production of many neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinepherine, etc), as well as SAMe and glutathione (a pivotal anti-oxidant molecule involved in the body’s natural detoxification process).
There are 31 currently known variations of this gene. The two most common are known as the 677 and the 1298 (which makes reference to the specific location on the gene where the abnormality is). These variants produce a MTHFR enzyme that is 30-60% less active than normal.
As with all genes, MTHFR comes in pairs. You get one from each parent (often the corresponding symptoms run in families). So it is possible to have:

Two normally functioning genes

One normal gene, and one gene that is a lower functioning variant

Two genes that are the same low functioning variant

Two genes that are different low functioning variants.

Having one or two of the lower functioning variants can contribute to symptoms of:

Cardiovascular risks associated with high Homocystiene:

Cardiovascular disease, Atherosclerosis, Stroke, Deep Vein Thrombosis (clots)

Folate deficiency related pregnancy and development problems

Still Births / miscarriage

Pre-Eclampsia

Neural tube defects (cleft lip, cleft palate, etc)

Neurotransmitter issues

Depression / Anxiety

Insomnia

Dementia

Schizophrenia

Parkinson’s

Addictions

Significant decrease in ability to eliminate toxins, especially heavy metals

SNIP