Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

PlexusDx: Exploring the Impact of the BHMT Gene on Health

PlexusDx stands out as the primary source of personalized health reports by enabling people to gain meaningful information about their genetic profiles. Our exploration today focuses on genetic complexities and investigates how the BHMT gene influences homocysteine metabolism which affects various health conditions. The BHMT gene produces the betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase enzyme that serves as an essential element in the methylation cycle. Optimal physical and mental health depends on a complex sequence of steps within this cycle. Betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase enzyme operates mainly in the betaine pathway where it uses choline-derived betaine to transform homocysteine into dimethylglycine and methionine. The conversion process produces methionine which is then used to make SAM-e (S-adenosyl-methionine) that supplies methyl groups during methylation activities. Methionine participates in phosphatidylcholine synthesis through the action of the PEMT enzyme. The biochemical processes that form one-carbon metabolism affect multiple health areas such as cardiovascular wellness, mental health status, reproductive capabilities along with cancer risk among others. The BHMT gene variant rs3733890 stands out because its minor 'A' allele produces an enzyme that binds homocysteine more effectively. Studies have yet to determine the exact influence of this genetic variant on homocysteine concentrations but indicate possible links to different health effects. People who possess the 'A' allele for rs3733890 face heightened chances of developing folate therapy failure and other health issues like head and neck cancer, pulmonary thromboembolism and placental abruption. This genetic variant demonstrates protective effects against specific illnesses including cervical cancer, breast cancer and colorectal cancer. The relationship between this variant and health outcomes appears complex because it is affected by additional genetic factors including other methylation pathway gene variants like MTHFR, MTR, or MTRR plus folate levels. Researchers found multiple variants of the BHMT gene beyond rs3733890 which may affect folate levels and increase disease risk. The 'C' allele at rs651852 correlates with reduced folate levels whereas rs3797546 and rs625879 'C' alleles relate to cleft palate formation and congenital heart defects along with methotrexate-induced liver toxicity. The complex interactions between genetic variants such as those found in the BHMT gene highlight why personalized health insights are essential. PlexusDx Precision Health & Wellness tests enable people to understand their genetic susceptibilities which helps them to make health choices that improve their overall well-being. The BHMT gene and its variants reveal insights into genetics complexity and its influence on human health. People can improve their health and well-being by examining genetic traits such as BHMT to take proactive health measures. Our readers should investigate the Precision Health & Wellness tests available from PlexusDx to gain customized information about their genetic profile and start their path to optimized health. Visit PlexusDx at PlexusDx.com and online platforms like Amazon and Walmart to explore Precision Health & Wellness tests which offer personalized health insights.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.