← Genes & pathways

Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

MTHFR

Makes an enzyme that helps produce a form of folate used in the processing of homocysteine. Common variants are different from rare variants that cause severe MTHFR deficiency.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

EXPLORE THE PATHWAY

See where MTHFR prepares folate and how ATP is made and used in a separate connected route. Open the interactive MTHFR and energy map

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Follow the pathway beyond MTHFR

Follow the pathway beyond MTHFR

Dr. Purser teaches MTHFR within a larger folate and homocysteine pathway. MTHFR contributes to production of the folate form used in remethylation; MTR and MTRR connect that process to B12. His course asks readers to consider the whole cluster rather than build a plan around C677T or A1298C alone.

Putting the pieces together

Compare your genetic report with current homocysteine and nutrient results, plus the supplements you already take. If methylfolate, folinic acid or a form of B12 changes your sleep or mood, note the form, amount and timing. That response is useful history, not proof of a new diagnosis.

Where the VARS Triad and MTHFR Daily fit

If you are exploring homocysteine or cytokines, Dr. Purser may discuss MTHFR Daily and the VARS Triad: VARS Glutathione, VARS SOD, and VARS Catalase. He gives glutathione a central place in his approach to antioxidant support.

A gene result alone cannot tell you that you need these products or that they will treat a condition. Review your current results, medicines, goals, and tolerance with your clinician before choosing a product or dose.

A question to bring to your visit

What do my current homocysteine and B12/folate findings add to the genetic result, and what form of support have I already tolerated?

Reading your own results

Bring your original report, current results, health history, and medicines to your visit. This information can help you ask questions, but it cannot diagnose a condition or choose a supplement dose for you.

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase · C677T · A1298C · folate · homocysteine