COMT mutation and intolerance to methyl groups

[soundasacrystal]

Can anyone help me understand this better?

I suspect but do not know that I have the COMT gene mutation because of the way I react to methylated forms of folate and B12. In the past I have had severe panic attacks, insomnia, and even seizures after taking these things. But I suspect that they are an important part of the healing puzzle, so I would like to understand this better.

Any insights on what this is and what can be done about it?

 

[alicec]

There's no evidence that COMT SNPs affect tolerance of methyl groups.

This was a theory of Yasko's that became self-fulfilling. Because such people MIGHT be sensitive to methyl groups they weren't given them. At some point this was claimed as a known fact - ie that such people WERE sensitive to methyl groups and SHOULDN'T be given them.

There are no studies to support the claim and plenty of people who are COMT +/+, including myself, have put the theory to the test and found it wanting. I am not sensitive to methyl groups nor are many other people of PR.

Conversely, some people who are COMT -/- report sensitivity to methyl groups.

As for the basis of the sensitivity, there could be many reasons for it and it's probably a very individual thing.

 

[sb4]

What @alicec said is probably right.

I have comt mutations and seem to really struggle with anything that increases catecholamines. This includes methylfolate. So that could be random or it could back up that theory.

 

[caledonia]

You can use some niacin to cushion things.

See my document "Roadblocks to Successful Methylation Treatment" in my signature link.