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Molybdenum, AOX1, and What Your Genotype Means for Metabolism

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that supports several enzymes involved in breaking down toxins, processing proteins, and protecting genetic material. One important molybdenum-dependent enzyme is aldehyde oxidase 1, or AOX1, which is produced from the AOX1 gene. AOX1 helps the liver metabolize certain drugs and environmental chemicals. Variations in the AOX1 gene can influence how much AOX1 your body makes and how efficiently you process some substances.

Why this matters

AOX1 activity depends on available molybdenum because the metal is a required cofactor for proper enzyme function. People with genetic variants that increase AOX1 expression may metabolize certain medications or toxins more quickly. Those with average expression will have typical processing rates. Knowing your genotype can help you and your healthcare provider consider diet, lifestyle, and medication management when relevant.

General guidance everyone can use

  • Target a balanced diet that includes good molybdenum sources: legumes (beans, lentils), whole grains, dairy products, and leafy green vegetables.
  • The recommended daily allowance for adults is 45 micrograms of molybdenum. A varied whole-food diet typically provides sufficient amounts.
  • Supplements are usually unnecessary and may carry risks if taken in excess. Only use supplements under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
  • Tell your clinician about any genetic results when discussing medications, especially drugs known to be processed by AOX1 or related pathways.
  • If you have concerns about environmental exposures, work with a clinician or environmental health specialist to reduce contact and consider appropriate testing.

Genetic interpretations

2 effect alleles (GG) — Significantly increased AOX1 expression

If your genotype is GG for rs55754655, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with significantly increased AOX1 expression. Practical implications and considerations include:

  • Metabolism of medications and chemicals: Higher AOX1 levels may lead to faster metabolism for drugs and environmental chemicals that AOX1 helps process. This can change how quickly a drug is cleared or how active a metabolite accumulates.
  • Dietary molybdenum: Because AOX1 requires molybdenum to function, maintaining adequate dietary intake becomes important to support elevated enzyme levels. Focus on legumes, whole grains, dairy, and leafy greens. Most people meet needs through food; aim for the 45 mcg/day guideline.
  • Supplement caution: Avoid routine molybdenum supplementation unless a clinician identifies a deficiency. Excess molybdenum can cause adverse effects and interfere with copper balance.
  • Medication review: If you regularly take medications that are partially metabolized by AOX1, discuss this genotype with your healthcare provider. They may consider monitoring drug levels, adjusting doses, or choosing alternative medications if clinically appropriate.
  • Monitoring and testing: Routine blood tests for molybdenum are not commonly performed. If there are concerns about toxicity or deficiency, your clinician can order targeted testing and interpretation.
1 effect allele (AG) — Likely increased AOX1 expression

If your genotype is AG for rs55754655, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with likely increased AOX1 expression compared with the average. Practical implications and considerations include:

  • Metabolism of medications and chemicals: You may metabolize some drugs and environmental substances somewhat faster than someone with typical AOX1 expression. Effects are generally milder than for the GG genotype but still worth noting for certain medications.
  • Dietary molybdenum: Maintain a balanced diet with molybdenum-rich foods: beans, lentils, whole grains, dairy, and leafy greens. The RDA of 45 mcg/day is a useful target.
  • Supplementation: Not routinely recommended. Only consider supplements after discussing with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have evidence of low molybdenum or special circumstances.
  • Medication considerations: Share your genotype with your clinician when discussing prescription drugs, especially those with narrow therapeutic windows or known AOX1 involvement. Your provider may suggest monitoring or alternative therapies if needed.
  • Environmental and lifestyle: Minimizing unnecessary exposure to industrial chemicals or toxins remains good practice. General detox-supporting behaviors such as avoiding smoking and limiting excessive alcohol can reduce liver burden.
0 effect alleles (AA) — Typical AOX1 expression

If your genotype is AA for rs55754655, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele and are expected to have typical AOX1 enzyme expression. Practical implications and considerations include:

  • Metabolism of medications and chemicals: Your AOX1 activity and related drug metabolism are likely within average population ranges.
  • Dietary molybdenum: Continue a balanced diet with molybdenum-containing foods. The adult RDA of 45 mcg/day is normally achieved through varied whole foods.
  • Supplements: Molybdenum supplements are generally unnecessary unless your healthcare provider identifies a specific deficiency or clinical reason.
  • Routine care: Standard clinical monitoring and medication management apply. Still share genetic results with clinicians because they add context for personalized care decisions.

Practical lifestyle and testing suggestions

  • Follow a varied whole-food diet that includes molybdenum-rich items listed above.
  • Limit exposures that increase liver detox load: avoid tobacco, limit excessive alcohol, and minimize unnecessary chemical exposures at home and work.
  • When starting or changing medications, mention your AOX1 genotype to prescribing clinicians so they can consider metabolism differences and monitoring needs.
  • Do not begin molybdenum supplements without clinician approval. If deficiency is suspected, your clinician can order appropriate tests and interpret results.
  • Consider routine health maintenance labs as recommended by your clinician. Specific molybdenum testing is rarely needed but may be ordered in special circumstances.

Limitations and next steps

Genetic results show predispositions, not certainties. Many factors influence enzyme activity and overall metabolism, including other genes, nutrient status, age, liver health, medications, and environmental exposures. Use this information as one part of your health picture.

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This content is educational and intended to help you understand genetic predispositions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to medications, starting new supplements, or altering your health care plan. Share these results with your clinician to support informed, personalized care decisions.