Thanks for your reply! I did have a breakthrough yesterday. A while back I asked chat GTP to explain the methylation cycle and I used that explanation yesterday to identify that it's not actually the "back end" of the methylation cycle that I was dealing with, but rather the "front end." (though it's just a matter of perspective)
I decided to try supplementing with Methionine - to great effect. It seems that perhaps the conversion of homocystiene back into methionine is the bottleneck I've been experiencing.
For those that are interested here is my "conversation" with Chat GTP about methylation. Note that the AI can get things completely wrong so everything it says has to be double checked.
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Me: Explain the methylation cycle to me step by step
Chat GPT:
The methylation cycle is a biochemical pathway in the body that involves the transfer of methyl groups (-CH3) from one molecule to another. These methyl groups are important for regulating gene expression, producing neurotransmitters, and maintaining overall health. Here is a step-by-step overview of the methylation cycle:
1. Methionine is an amino acid that is obtained from the diet and used to create proteins in the body. It is also the starting point for the methylation cycle. Methionine is converted into S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) through the action of the enzyme methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT).
2. SAMe is a universal methyl donor that can transfer its methyl group to a wide variety of molecules, including DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids. SAMe donates its methyl group through a process called transmethylation, which is catalyzed by specific enzymes known as methyltransferases.
3. SAMe is converted into S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) when it donates its methyl group. SAH is a byproduct of methylation and needs to be removed from the body. The enzyme SAH hydrolase breaks down SAH into homocysteine and adenosine.
4. Homocysteine can be recycled back into methionine through two pathways: the folate pathway and the betaine pathway. In the folate pathway, homocysteine is converted into methionine with the help of folate, vitamin B12, and the enzyme methionine synthase. In the betaine pathway, homocysteine is converted into methionine with the help of betaine and the enzyme betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase.
5. The conversion of homocysteine back into methionine is important for maintaining adequate levels of SAMe, which is necessary for continued methylation. If homocysteine levels become too high, it can lead to health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline.
6. Methylation is a highly regulated process, and its balance is important for overall health. Disruptions in the methylation cycle can lead to a wide variety of health problems, including neurological disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
In summary, the methylation cycle is a biochemical pathway that involves the transfer of methyl groups from SAMe to a variety of molecules, followed by the breakdown of SAH into homocysteine and adenosine. Homocysteine can then be recycled back into methionine through the folate or betaine pathways, allowing for continued methylation.
Me: List supplements that can assists each step of the methylation pathway
Chat GTP:
There are several nutrients and supplements that can assist with different steps in the methylation cycle. Here is a list of some of the key supplements and nutrients for each step of the methylation pathway:
1. Methionine Synthesis:
- Methionine: This amino acid is a precursor to SAMe and can be obtained from protein-rich foods such as meats, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
2. SAMe Synthesis:
- Vitamin B6: This vitamin is required for the conversion of methionine to SAMe.
- Folate: Folate is needed for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.
- Vitamin B12: This vitamin is also needed for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.
- Magnesium: This mineral is involved in the production of SAMe.
- Zinc: Zinc is a cofactor for methionine synthase, which is needed to convert homocysteine to methionine.
3. SAMe Donation:
- SAMe: This is the primary methyl donor in the body and can be taken as a supplement.
4. SAH Breakdown:
- N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): This supplement can help to boost levels of glutathione, a potent antioxidant that can help to detoxify SAH.
5. Homocysteine Conversion:
- Folate: This vitamin is required for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine through the folate cycle.
- Vitamin B12: This vitamin is also required for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine through the folate cycle.
- Trimethylglycine (TMG): TMG is a methyl donor that can assist with the conversion of homocysteine to methionine through the betaine cycle.
- Choline: Choline is a precursor to TMG and can help to support the betaine cycle.
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Riboflavin is a cofactor for the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), which is involved in the folate cycle.
- Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P): This is the active form of vitamin B6 and is required for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine through the folate cycle.
It's important to note that individual nutrient needs and supplement requirements can vary based on genetics, health status, and other factors. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet.
