MTHFR Gene: What’s real, what’s not and what does it actually mean?

In today's conversation, Kate Wilson welcomes Emalyn Cork to explore the complexities of the MTHFR gene, a topic that has sparked curiosity and confusion alike in both clinical settings and the general public. Emalyn explains the complexities of the MTHFR gene, debunks common misconceptions, and discusses when genetic testing is truly necessary.   Key words: MTHFR, genetics, homocysteine, genetic testing, medical misinformation, folic acid, genetic variants, health risks, clinical utility, genetic counseling   Key Topics: What the MTHFR gene does in the body Common misconceptions about MTHFR variants When genetic testing for MTHFR is clinically relevant Risks of unnecessary genetic testing and treatments How to interpret genetic test results responsibly   Guest bio: Emalyn is the Assistant Director of Genetic Counseling at Emory Healthcare. She works with pediatric and adult clinical genetics patients in the inpatient and outpatient settings. She graduated from Mount Sinai's genetic counseling training program in 2018 and worked as a genetic counselor in their clinic for inborn errors of metabolism before moving to Atlanta to join Emory's team in 2021. She has a special interest in metabolic and mitochondrial diseases and is passionate about the education and mentorship of genetics trainees.     Resources related to today’s topic: Findageneticcounselor.org to search for a genetic counselor near you Information on MTHFR from Cleveland Clinic   Give your feedback and help shape All Access DNA! Take our listener survey here: https://forms.gle/x82MKLRftpKH987s7   Sign up for our newsletter here: https://www.allaccessdna.com/newsletter   Please subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to stay updated on new episodes of All Access DNA. Listen to past episodes on your favorite podcast play by searching “All Access DNA” or by streaming from our website at allaccessdna.podbean.com   Any inquiries on the podcast can be sent to AllAccessDNA@gmail.com   Note that this podcast is for entertainment and education and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health.   The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ. Our Social Media Lead is Aryanah Estinvil.