Mutation of the methylentetrahydrofolate reductase gene and its assosiation with changes in mood

Anlly María Guillen and Carolina Etchelecu
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Anlly María Guillen: Universidad Latina de Panamá, médico docente, Panamá, Ciudad de Panamá
Carolina Etchelecu: Universidad Latina de Panamá, estudiante de la carrera de Doctor en Medicina y Cirugía. Panamá, Ciudad de Panamá

International Journal of Neurology, 2025, vol. 59, 245

Abstract: The C677T mutation in the MTHFR gene (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) reduces the activity of the enzyme responsible for converting folic acid (vitamin B9) into its active form, methylfolate, which is essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This reduction can predispose individuals to mood disorders such as anxiety, irritability, or depression, particularly in situations of high stress, poor diet, or vitamin B deficiencies. The decreased enzymatic activity in this case can lead to less efficient production of neurotransmitters, affecting mood regulation and emotional well-being. However, these individuals often respond well to methylfolate supplementation, which helps compensate for the metabolic deficiency, improving chemical balance in the brain and reducing mood-related symptoms. Additionally, maintaining a diet rich in natural folates (found in leafy green vegetables) and other B vitamins can be helpful in minimizing the negative effects of polymorphism.

Keywords: C677T mutation; Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase; methylfolate; neurotransmitters; serotonin; dopamine; norepinephrine; anxiety; irritability; depression; high stress; vitamin B deficiency; supplementation; natural folates; emotional regulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cwh:ijneur:v:59:y:2025:id:245

DOI: 10.62486/ijn2025245

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