Background

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is an enzyme that helps the body to break down folate. The MTHFR enzyme is made by the MTHFR gene. Harmless changes in the MTHFR gene, polymorphisms, are very common. Importantly, MTHFR polymorphisms do not cause any significant health problems. MTHFR gene variants or mutations are different to gene polymorphisms and are very rare. For more information about the MTHFR gene, refer to the resource below [Resources: VCGS MTHFR].

MTHFR gene polymorphisms and vaccines

People who have MTHFR gene polymorphisms can safely receive vaccines. There is no increased risk of adverse events following immunisation (AEFI).

MTHFR gene polymorphism testing

There is no clinical indication for MTHFR polymorphism testing before vaccination.

Authors: Nigel Crawford (Director SAEFVIC, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute) and Margie Danchin (Senior Research Fellow, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute)

Reviewed by: Katie Butler (MVEC Education Nurse Coordinator) and Sally Gordon (MVEC Senior Research Fellow)

Date: October 2023

Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre (MVEC) staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.

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