According to health expert Suzy Cohen, recent research regarding epigenetics, SNPs, and methylation defects has been connected to an enzyme called “MTHFR.” But it’s not the only game in town: 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase reductase (MTRR) deserves a hard look too.
The MTRR gene informs the body about how to make an enzyme called methionine synthase reductase. This enzyme tells another enzyme, methionine synthase, what to do. This is the key to amino acid conversion. This exchange is called the “transmethylation” pathway.
If homocysteine builds up there, due to an MTRR gene SNP, the conversion to methionine is not occurring and problems arise.
When properly-behaved MTRR “turns on” the first enzyme, which activates the next, it converts homocysteine into something like methionine, which the body can use. Everything works well, unless the body is vitamin B12 deficient.
Mutated MTRR leads to unhealthy levels of homocysteine and methionine deficiency.
For some people, this means increased risks to a preborn child, like Down’s syndrome or neural tube defects. Fortunately, these genetic SNP’s can be discovered easily through genetic tests.
Often MTHFR is linked to limited amounts of natural folate in the body, while MTRR is linked to vitamin B12 deficiency. However, there are exceptions, and both genes do require vitamin B12 and folate for a smooth pathway.
To correct the problems that occur when inadequate B12 exists, you’ll need to supplement. Unfortunately, cyanocobalamin is the most common form of vitamin B12, used in oral supplements, B12 shots, and fortified foods. You’re much better off buying the biologically-activated versions like methylcobalamin, or adenosylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin.
Finally, Ms. Cohen reminds consumers that it’s vital to avoid medications that deplete vitamin B12 and “bust” the MTRR gene busters. Antacids, corticosteroids (inhalers, oral, and topical), oral antibiotics, and more are to be avoided as much as possible.
MTRR gene complications and compromised vitamin B12 can lead to childhood leukemia, pancreatic cancer, Crohn’s disease, and congenital heart problems says Cohen.
Restore healthy amount of natural B12 with the proper supplements and natural foods like meat, fish, dairy, and eggs.
Read the full article here: MTRR and Vitamin B12 Impact Your Homocysteine
