MTHFR Common Variants
The MTHFR Common Variants test identifies genetic changes that affect folate metabolism and methylation pathways. It helps explain elevated homocysteine, nutrient deficiencies, and related health risks.
Turnaround time
3 weeks
Biomarkers count
1
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about MTHFR Common Variants
What is the MTHFR Common Variants test?
The MTHFR Common Variants test is a genetic blood test that analyses common variations in the MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene. This gene plays a critical role in converting folate into its active form, which is essential for DNA synthesis, detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cardiovascular health.
The most commonly tested variants are C677T and A1298C. Certain variants can reduce enzyme efficiency, leading to impaired methylation, altered folate metabolism, and elevated homocysteine levels.
This test identifies inherited genetic variants—it does not change over time and only needs to be done once.
Why do I need an MTHFR Common Variants test?
MTHFR variants may contribute to health issues by affecting folate utilisation and methylation capacity, even when dietary intake appears adequate.
You may benefit from this test if you:
-
Have elevated homocysteine levels
-
Have unexplained cardiovascular risk
-
Experience fatigue or brain fog
-
Have recurrent pregnancy loss or fertility concerns
-
Have poor response to standard folic acid supplements
-
Have neurological or mood-related symptoms
-
Have a family history of thrombosis
-
Want insight into personalised nutrition or supplementation
Testing helps identify whether genetic factors may be influencing metabolic or cardiovascular risk.
Benefits of the test
-
Identifies common MTHFR gene variants
Detects C677T and A1298C variants. -
Explains elevated homocysteine
Links genetics to cardiovascular risk. -
Supports personalised nutrition strategies
Guides folate and B-vitamin optimisation. -
Provides lifelong genetic insight
Results remain valid indefinitely. -
Useful in fertility and pregnancy assessment
Methylation plays a key role in fetal development. -
Supports neurological and cognitive health evaluation
Methylation affects neurotransmitter pathways. -
Simple blood-based genetic testing
Requires only one sample. -
Complements homocysteine and B-vitamin testing
Adds genetic context to biochemical results.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
-
Choose your nearest UK clinic
-
Attend your appointment
-
Blood sample taken by a clinician
-
Sample sent for genetic analysis
-
Results issued once testing is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
-
Mobile phlebotomist attends your location
-
Blood sample taken at home or hotel
-
Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
No variant detected
-
Normal MTHFR gene function
-
Standard folate metabolism expected
-
Homocysteine regulation likely unaffected by MTHFR
Heterozygous variant
-
One copy of C677T or A1298C
-
Mild reduction in enzyme activity
-
May contribute to elevated homocysteine under stress or low nutrient intake
Homozygous or compound variants
-
Two copies of a variant or one of each
-
Greater reduction in enzyme efficiency
-
Higher likelihood of elevated homocysteine and methylation imbalance
Results should be interpreted alongside homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, and clinical context.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.