Folate serum
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Understanding Folate Serum Levels: Insights from Recent Research
Folate Compounds in Human Serum
Human serum contains various folate compounds, primarily N5-methyl tetrahydrofolate, which supports the growth of Lactobacillus casei but not Streptococcus faecalis or Leuconostoc citrovorum. This compound is crucial for methionine biosynthesis and is identified as a monoglutamate form of folate.
Methods for Measuring Serum Folate
Radioassay Techniques
Radioassay methods for measuring serum folate involve using crystalline β-lactoglobulin as a folate-binding agent. This method has shown stability and comparability with microbiological assays. Another radioassay technique uses 3H-pteroylglutamic acid to measure serum folate and folic acid-binding protein, providing a clear distinction between normal, indeterminate, and deficient folate levels.
Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
LC-MS/MS methods have been developed to measure various folate forms in serum, including 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid, 5-formyltetrahydrofolic acid, and folic acid. These methods offer high sensitivity and precision, making them suitable as reference methods. Additionally, LC-MS/MS can quantify folate catabolites, providing a comprehensive assessment of folate status.
Impact of Folic Acid Supplementation
Folic acid supplementation significantly increases serum folate levels, with responses varying based on dosage and genetic factors such as the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T genotype. Higher doses of folic acid (400 µg) result in more substantial increases in serum folate compared to lower doses (200 µg). Long-term supplementation also affects the expression of proteins involved in immune function, inflammation, and coagulation.
Stability of Folate in Stored Serum
Folate stability in stored serum is a concern for long-term epidemiological studies. Research indicates that folate degrades over time, with a decrease of approximately 3% per year. However, a significant portion of folate can be recovered as p-aminobenzoylglutamate equivalents, making this method preferable for analyzing archival serum samples.
Folate and Clinical Outcomes
Low serum folate levels are associated with poorer clinical responses in patients with major depressive disorder who are resistant to fluoxetine treatment. This suggests that folate status may influence treatment outcomes in depression.
Conclusion
Recent research highlights the importance of accurate measurement and understanding of serum folate levels. Advanced methods like LC-MS/MS provide detailed insights into folate forms and stability, while supplementation studies underscore the impact of folic acid on serum folate levels and related health outcomes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for clinical and epidemiological applications.
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