(46) Methylation, the MTHFR gene, and your health.

Introduction

  • Speaker: Dr. Robin Lewis, Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

  • Topic of Discussion: Methylation, a biochemical process related to various health conditions.

  • Mentioned Influence: Questions prompted by the Gary Brea episode on Joe Rogan's podcast.

Methylation Overview

  • Definition: Methylation is the process of adding or removing methyl groups in the body, vital for numerous bodily functions.

  • Health Implications: Linked to various health issues such as:

    • Heart disease

    • Mood disorders

    • Neurological disorders

    • Detoxification issues

    • Pain

Methylation Dynamics

  • Balance: The body can experience too much or too little methylation.

  • Undermethylation:

    • More prevalent; affects 40-60% of the North American population due to genetic variations.

    • Focus of the presentation is on undermethylation.

Presentation Structure

  • Part One: Fundamental understanding of methylation, its effects on the body, and testing methods.

  • Part Two: Therapeutic approaches and potential side effects.

Importance of Methylation

  • Biochemical Reaction: Occurs billions of times per second, impacting various body systems.

  • Functions of Methylation:

    • DNA repair

    • Regulation of homocysteine (crucial for cardiovascular health)

    • Detoxification processes

    • Mood and inflammation regulation.

Specific Roles of Methylation

  • Epigenetics: Methylation allows activation or deactivation of genes.

    • Example: BRCA gene associated with breast and ovarian cancer; having it doesn't guarantee disease if methylation is effective.

  • Detoxification:

    • SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) aids in detoxification by replenishing glutathione, an antioxidant.

    • Importance of glutathione: Helps the liver detoxify and protects against environmental toxins.

  • Neurochemical Regulation:

    • SAMe impacts COMT enzyme, crucial for deactivating neurotransmitters (dopamine, adrenaline).

    • This regulation influences mood disorders, stress, and anxiety.

Development of Methylation Issues

  • Causes: Genetic and environmental factors affect methylation.

  • Genetic Variations:

    • Genes linked to methylation: MTHFR, MTR, COMT.

    • MTHFR: Methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase enzyme converts folate into its active form.

    • Genetic Variants: C677T and A1298C variations affect enzyme function.

Impact of MTHFR Variations

  • C677T Variant:

    • Heterozygous (one variant): Reduces enzyme function by 35%.

    • Homozygous (two variants): Reduces function by up to 75%.

  • A1298C Variant: Less common; similar impacts but with varying prevalence.

  • Population Spectra: Genetic variations vary widely in function and impact, leading to a spectrum of methylation issues.