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Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

DHFR

DHFR helps reduce folic acid and dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate-related forms used in cellular metabolism. This is one part of the folate system, distinct from MTHFR and folate transport into cells.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Recycling folate into usable cellular forms

Recycling folate into usable cellular forms

DHFR helps reduce folic acid and dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate-related forms used in cellular metabolism. This is one part of the folate system, distinct from MTHFR and folate transport into cells.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser discusses DHFR when comparing folate forms. Folinic acid, folic acid and methylfolate are not interchangeable labels: they enter folate chemistry differently. The clinical conversation should include the actual supplement, dose, tolerance, B12 status and relevant medicines rather than assuming a marker means all folate processing has stopped.

A question to bring to your visit

Which folate form am I using, and what finding supports changing it?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

Dihydrofolate Reductase