Ordering the Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics
The Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics helps identify how your body processes nutrients that support energy, mood, memory, and detoxification. This test measures both genetic markers and key nutrients in your blood and cells, giving a clear picture of your methylation pathway. Interestingly, methylation is involved in turning genes on and off, which can affect how your body responds to stress and environmental toxins.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Find out if you have nutrient imbalances that may affect your energy and focus
- Identify genetic changes that may impact your body’s ability to detoxify and repair itself
- Pinpoint possible reasons for mood swings, brain fog, or trouble sleeping
- Support your doctor in creating a plan for targeted supplements or diet changes
- Track changes in your methylation pathway over time to see if your plan is working
Who Should Consider a Methylation Pathway Assessment
People who feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, struggle with memory, or notice mood changes that don’t improve with rest may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried different diets and supplements but still feels run down and forgetful could use this test to find out if their body is missing key nutrients or has genetic changes affecting their energy.
Ordering may also be helpful if you:
- Have a family history of heart disease or early memory loss
- Experience frequent headaches or trouble concentrating at work or school
- Notice slow recovery after exercise or illness
- Have trouble losing weight despite healthy eating and exercise
- Are curious if your trouble with sleep is linked to how your body processes B vitamins
Testing for methylation markers can reveal if your body is missing important nutrients or has genetic changes that affect how you process toxins, make energy, or support your immune system. Delaying this test could mean missing the chance to address nutrient gaps or genetic factors that may be slowing your progress with diet or supplements.
Preparing for a Methylation and Nutrient Metabolism Test
Fasting is not required for this test, but you should follow any specific instructions provided in your test kit or by your practitioner. Always go by the guidance your doctor or healthcare professional gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Marker Means | Low and High Levels of Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methionine | 15-45 | Methionine is an amino acid needed for making proteins and starting the methylation cycle. It helps your body process toxins and supports brain function. |
High levels mean your body may not be converting methionine properly, which can affect detoxification.
Low levels mean you may not be getting enough protein or your body is using up methionine too quickly. |
| S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) | 80-120 | SAM is a key compound made from methionine that donates methyl groups for many body processes, including mood and DNA repair. |
High levels mean your body may not be using SAM efficiently, which can affect mood and cell repair.
Low levels mean you may have trouble making or using methyl groups, which can impact energy and brain function. |
| S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) | 10-22 | SAH is a byproduct of methylation and can block methylation if it builds up. It is important for keeping the methylation cycle balanced. |
High levels mean your methylation cycle may be blocked, which can slow detoxification and energy production.
Low levels mean your methylation cycle is moving quickly or you may be missing key nutrients. |
| Homocysteine | 5-12 | Homocysteine is an amino acid that builds up when methylation is not working well. High levels are linked to heart and brain problems. |
High levels mean you may be missing B vitamins or have trouble with methylation, which can increase risk for heart and memory issues.
Low levels mean your methylation cycle is working well or you may be getting extra B vitamins. |
| Cystathionine | 0.10-0.40 | Cystathionine is made from homocysteine and is needed to make cysteine and glutathione, which help with detoxification and antioxidant defense. |
High levels mean your body may be converting too much homocysteine, possibly due to stress or inflammation.
Low levels mean you may not be making enough glutathione, which can affect detoxification. |
| Cysteine | 200-400 | Cysteine is an amino acid needed for making glutathione, a key antioxidant. It also helps build proteins and supports immune function. |
High levels mean your body may be breaking down proteins quickly or you may have oxidative stress.
Low levels mean you may not be making enough antioxidants, which can affect your body’s ability to handle toxins. |
| Glutathione (GSH) | 900-1800 | Glutathione is the body’s main antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and helping remove toxins. It is made from cysteine, glycine, and glutamate. |
High levels mean your body is responding to high levels of toxins or oxidative stress.
Low levels mean you may have trouble fighting off toxins or may be at risk for cell damage. |
| Taurine | 40-120 | Taurine is an amino acid that helps with bile production, heart rhythm, and calming the nervous system. It also supports detoxification. |
High levels mean your body may be under stress or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble with bile flow or calming your nervous system. |
| Glycine | 200-400 | Glycine is an amino acid needed for making proteins, glutathione, and supporting sleep and memory. It also helps with detoxification. |
High levels mean your body may be breaking down proteins or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble making glutathione or supporting restful sleep. |
| Serine | 80-180 | Serine is an amino acid that helps make proteins and supports the methylation cycle. It is also needed for brain and nerve function. |
High levels mean your body may be breaking down proteins or you may be under stress.
Low levels mean you may have trouble making key brain chemicals or supporting methylation. |
| Sarcosine | 1.0-3.0 | Sarcosine is a byproduct of glycine metabolism and is involved in the methylation cycle. It can reflect changes in methylation activity. |
High levels mean your methylation cycle may be overactive or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean your methylation cycle may be slow or you may be missing key nutrients. |
| Choline | 7-20 | Choline is a nutrient needed for making cell membranes, brain chemicals, and supporting methylation. It is also important for liver function. |
High levels mean your body may not be using choline efficiently or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble making brain chemicals or supporting liver detoxification. |
| Betaine | 30-70 | Betaine helps convert homocysteine to methionine, supporting the methylation cycle. It also helps protect cells from stress. |
High levels mean your body may be under stress or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble converting homocysteine, which can affect methylation. |
| Dimethylglycine (DMG) | 1.0-5.0 | DMG is a byproduct of betaine metabolism and supports the methylation cycle. It can help with energy and immune function. |
High levels mean your body may be using betaine quickly or you may be taking supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble supporting methylation or immune function. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines.
Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics FAQ
Is there Methylation Panel by Genova Diagnostics testing near me?
This is a test kit that you can collect locally, and you can check the draw location link at the top of the page for nearby options. If you have ongoing fatigue or memory issues, having a convenient collection site makes it easier to get tested without delay.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your results and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if nutrient imbalances or genetic changes are slowing your progress, so you can address them sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6-12 months, especially if you are making changes to your diet or supplements. This helps you track improvements in your methylation pathway and adjust your plan as needed.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses plasma measurement for metabolites and buccal swab for genetic SNPs, with specificity and sensitivity both above 98%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This test cannot be collected or mailed from New York state. Contact us with questions.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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