Description:
Doctors Data Methylation test provides the important “methylation index" (ratio of SAM to SAH). The test results can appropriately guide nutritional support to improve/normalize methionine metabolism and meliorate or prevent the potential adverse consequences associated with inadequate methylation and transsulfuration capacity. The Methylation Test is a measurement of six primary indicators of methionine metabolism and provision of the “methylation index". Amino acids and metabolites measured by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Requires a single, overnight fasting plasma sample. Results specific, patient-friendly commentary provided Normal metabolism of the essential amino acid methionine is critical for cellular Methylation of DNA, proteins and neurotransmitters. Also, the methionine transsulfuration pathway provides conditionally essential cysteine which is the rate-limiting amino acid in glutathione biosynthesis. Requires a blood draw blood draw fee not included. We provide the doctors order, you receive the results by email in 7-10 business days.

Methylation

Methionine is first enzymatically converted to S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the principal methyl donor for methylation of DNA, RNA, protein, phospholipids, creatinine and neurotransmitters. S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) is generated as a product of transmethylation and is hydrolyzed to homocysteine (Hcy) and adenosine through a reversible reaction. SAH is a potent inhibitor of methylation reactions. Efficient removal of adenosine and Hcy is imperative to prevent accumulation of SAH. Hcy is normally removed/recycled by remethylation to methionine through a series of reactions that require 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, B-12 and betaine to complete the normal methylation cycle. A low ration of SAM to SAH is a sensitive indicator of under-methylation. Elevated plasma Hcy is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recent research suggests that elevated SAH may be an even better predictor of risk for CVD.

Transsulfuration: Methionine-Hcy-cysteine

The methionine transsulfuration pathway occurs primarily in the liver and diverts Hcy away from remethylation to methionine towards synthesis of the conditionally essential amino acid cysteine. Homocysteine in the presence of serine and B-6 is enzymatically converted to cystathionine and ultimately cysteine. Cysteine is the rate limiting amino acid in the biosynthesis of quintessential glutathione (GSH). GSH is pivotal in the regulation of intracellular redox homeostasis, oxidative stress, immune function, DNA synthesis and repair, apoptosis and detoxification of metals and chemicals.

The DDI Methylation profile evaluates the plasma levels of methionine, cysteine, SAM, SAH, Hcy, and cystathionine and provides the important “methylation index” (ratio of SAM to SAH). The test results can appropriately guide nutritional support to improve/normalize methionine metabolism and meliorate or prevent the potential adverse consequences associated with inadequate methylation and transsulfuration capacity.