MethyltetrahydrofoIate Calcium
Other name: (6S)-L-5-MethyltetrahydrofoIate Calcium
CAS No.: 151533-22-1
What is Methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium?
Methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium (often abbreviated as L-Methylfolate or 5-MTHF Ca) is the calcium salt form of the active, natural form of folate (Vitamin B9) found in the human body. It is not folic acid, but rather the form that folic acid must be converted into to be metabolically active.
Folic Acid: The synthetic, oxidized form found in most supplements and added to fortified foods. It is inert and requires a multi-step enzymatic process to become active.
L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF): The predominant, biologically active form that circulates in the bloodstream and is ready for the body to use immediately.
The "Calcium" part simply makes the molecule stable for use in pharmaceutical and supplement formulations.
Key Characteristics and Benefits
The Active Form (No Conversion Required)
This is its most significant advantage. A substantial portion of the population has a reduced ability to convert folic acid into L-5-MTHF due to a genetic variation in the MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) enzyme. For these individuals, taking regular folic acid is inefficient and can lead to unmetabolized folic acid in the bloodstream. L-Methylfolate bypasses this conversion step, ensuring everyone can benefit from it, regardless of their MTHFR status.
Crucial Role in One-Carbon Metabolism
L-5-MTHF is a critical donor of methyl groups (-CH3) in a process called one-carbon metabolism. This process is essential for:
DNA Synthesis and Repair: Crucial for cell division and growth, making it especially important during pregnancy and infancy.
Homocysteine Regulation: L-5-MTHF donates a methyl group to convert the amino acid homocysteine back into methionine. Elevated homocysteine is a risk factor for cardiovascular and neurological issues.
Neurotransmitter Production: The methionine cycle eventually leads to the production of SAM-e (S-Adenosylmethionine), the body's primary methyl donor involved in the synthesis of crucial neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Primary Uses and Applications
Prenatal Health
L-5-MTHF is increasingly used in premium prenatal vitamins to support healthy neural tube development in the fetus and reduce the risk of complications, ensuring the mother gets bioavailable folate regardless of her genetics.
Addressing MTHFR Gene Mutations
For individuals with confirmed MTHFR polymorphisms (e.g., C677T or A1298C variants), L-Methylfolate is the recommended form of folate supplementation to avoid the pitfalls of unmetabolized folic acid.
Nutritional Supplementation
Used in general multivitamins and B-complex formulas to provide a highly bioavailable source of folate for overall health.
Adjuvant Support in Depression: Under the brand name Deplin® or L-Methylfolate Forte, it is prescribed as a medical food for individuals with depression and folate deficiency. It is believed to enhance the production of neurotransmitters, potentially improving the effectiveness of antidepressant medications.
Cardiovascular Health
By effectively lowering homocysteine levels, it may support cardiovascular health, though the direct link between homocysteine reduction and reduced cardiovascular events is still debated.
Safety and Side Effects
Generally Well-Tolerated: L-Methylfolate is considered safe and well-tolerated for most people.
Potential Side Effects: Some individuals, especially when starting at higher doses, may experience mild side effects such as:
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Bloating or gas
Sleep disturbances (often if taken too close to bedtime due to its role in energy and neurotransmitter production)
Masking B12 Deficiency: Like folic acid, high doses of L-Methylfolate can correct the anemia caused by a Vitamin B12 deficiency but will not prevent the associated neurological damage. This makes it essential to rule out or treat a B12 deficiency before starting high-dose folate therapy.
Why WELL SUNSHINE GROUP is Your Trusted Partner for High- Purity Methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium?
WELL SUNSHINE GROUP has long been dedicated to the research, development, and production of Methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium. Our products consistently meet the latest USP-NF standards, with a purity level of over 99%. With a monthly production capacity exceeding one ton, we ensure both quality and scale. Additionally, we maintain a comprehensive quality inspection system and a reliable after-sales service framework to guarantee customer satisfaction.
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