Folate

Folate (vitamin B9) is indispensable for cell division, DNA synthesis and the methylation cycle. Together with B12 it regulates homocysteine, which is looked at in cardiovascular diagnostics. Particularly important in pregnancy (neural tube defects). With MTHFR variants, the last conversion step to methylfolate is slowed.

What folate does in the body

Folate is converted in the cell in several steps into 5-methyltetrahydrofolate; the enzyme MTHFR carries out the last step. Folate supplies one-carbon building blocks: for making the DNA building blocks thymidine and purines and – together with vitamin B12 – for converting homocysteine into methionine, from which SAM is formed. Without folate, cells cannot divide correctly; blood formation, mucous membranes and the developing nervous system of the embryo are particularly affected.

Low folate – what happens in the body?

With little folate, DNA synthesis is slowed: blood formation produces fewer but oversized red blood cells (megaloblastic anaemia), and mucous membranes renew more slowly. Homocysteine rises because it is no longer recycled to methionine, and methylation receives less supply. In early pregnancy, neural tube defects occur more often with folate deficiency. Causes are low intake (little green vegetables), alcohol, gut diseases and certain medications such as methotrexate.

High folate – what does it mean?

High levels usually result from taking folic acid. They can mask a concurrent vitamin B12 deficiency in the blood count: the anaemia improves while the nerve damage caused by B12 deficiency continues to progress. That is why folate and B12 are considered together.

The interpretation is given in your report.