Why Methylation Matters
Methylation is a fundamental biological process that affects everything from gene expression to liver function. It relies on a network called one-carbon metabolism (1CM), which uses nutrients like choline, folate, and betaine to transfer methyl groups, tiny chemical units essential for cellular health.
Choline’s Unique Contribution
Choline stands out for its ability to donate three methyl groups per molecule. One is used to produce S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the body’s universal methyl donor. This makes choline a versatile and efficient contributor to the body’s methylation pool.
Working in Tandem with Folate
Choline and folate are metabolically entwined. Methyl groups from both are used for the
re-methylation of homocysteine to form methionine, an essential amino acid that cannot be produced de novo in the body. The body can use several substrates to convert homocysteine to methionine to ensure a sufficient supply of this crucial amino acid needed in 1CM and protein synthesis.
Genetics and Nutrient Demands
Genetic variants can impair folate metabolism and may increase the body’s reliance on choline. Research shows that individuals with the MTHFR 677TT genotype benefit from higher choline intake, which helps maintain methylation and reduce homocysteine levels. This study shows that 47% of the subjects with the 677TT genotype had serum folate concentrations in the deficient range (≤ 6.8 nmol/L) and therefore, the demand for betaine as a source for methyl groups to generate methionine from homocysteine is likely higher in individuals with this genotype. 1
What Happens in Deficiency
When choline levels are low, the body shifts its reliance to folate. This can lead to reduced liver folate, lower SAM levels, and reduction of cell membrane integrity. Animal and human studies confirm that choline intake is inversely related to homocysteine levels, independent of folate status. 2,3
The Methylation Advantage
Choline offers a methylation advantage over betaine and folic acid. Population studies show that dietary choline provides significantly more methyl groups. Optifolin+ ®, a di-choline salt of 5-Methyl-THF, offers even greater methyl group density, aiding methylation support. 4,5
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