What role does MTHFR play in Langlebigkeit?

The provided context does not directly address MTHFR and longevity. MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a key enzyme in folate and homocysteine metabolism. Common variants like C677T (rs1801133) reduce enzyme activity, leading to elevated homocysteine levels. Elevated homocysteine is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which can impact lifespan. Some studies suggest an association between MTHFR polymorphisms and all-cause mortality, but the evidence is moderate and inconsistent. Moreover, MTHFR is often overhyped in consumer genetics: the effect size of single SNPs is small, and clinical relevance depends heavily on folate status. Supplementation with methylfolate is only warranted in confirmed deficiency or specific contexts; indiscriminate use may carry risks (e.g., masking B12 deficiency). For a robust longevity assessment, homocysteine measurements and comprehensive risk stratification are more valuable than a single genetic test.