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Understanding Your DNMT3B Result: What It Means for Methylation and Health

The DNMT3B gene makes an enzyme called DNA methyltransferase 3B. This enzyme helps place methyl groups onto DNA, a process called de novo DNA methylation. Methylation controls gene activity, supports normal development, and helps maintain genomic stability. To add methyl groups, the enzyme uses SAM-e, converting it into homocysteine. Differences in DNMT3B activity can change how methyl groups are distributed in the body and can influence the Methionine Cycle and related methylation pathways.

Why This Matters

DNA methylation is a basic cellular process that supports many aspects of health including gene regulation, detoxification, nervous system function, and cell repair. If DNMT3B activity is higher or lower than typical, your body may handle nutrients involved in methylation differently. That can affect levels of SAM-e, homocysteine, folate, vitamin B12, and other cofactors that keep the Methionine Cycle balanced.

How to Read This Report

This report describes common genotypes for the DNMT3B variant rs2424913 and explains potential effects on methylation. The information is educational only. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, supplements, medications, or lifestyle based on genetic results.

Two effect alleles (TT) — Possible increased DNMT3B activity

If you have the TT genotype for rs2424913, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This variation may increase activity of the DNMT3B enzyme. Increased activity can change how your body uses methyl donors and may shift resource needs in the Methionine Cycle and Methylation Pathway.

Potential implications

  • Higher demand for SAM-e to supply methyl groups.
  • Possible increases in homocysteine if remethylation is insufficient.
  • Greater need for methylation cofactors such as folate and vitamin B12 to maintain balance.

Diet and food approach

  • Eat folate-rich foods: leafy greens, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and legumes.
  • Include sources of vitamin B12: fish, shellfish, dairy, and eggs. Consider fortified foods if you eat a plant-based diet.
  • Consume foods that support SAM-e production: high quality protein sources like poultry, fish, and legumes provide methionine.
  • Limit excessive alcohol, as it can impair methylation and deplete B vitamins.

Supplements to consider discussing with your clinician

  • Methylfolate (5-MTHF) or folic acid if recommended by your provider.
  • Methylcobalamin (active B12) especially for low B12 or signs of deficiency.
  • B-complex with adequate B6, B12, and folate to support homocysteine clearance.
  • SAM-e under medical supervision if indicated for mood, liver, or joint support.

Lifestyle and monitoring

  • Regularly assess diet quality to ensure adequate B vitamins and protein.
  • Ask your clinician about testing homocysteine, serum folate, and B12 levels.
  • Manage stress and sleep, as both influence methylation pathways.
  • Stay active—exercise supports circulation and metabolic health which complements methylation.
One effect allele (CT) — Possible moderate increase in DNMT3B activity

If you have the CT genotype, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This may cause a milder, partial increase in DNMT3B activity. The effect is typically less pronounced than with two effect alleles but can still influence methylation and nutrient needs.

Potential implications

  • Moderate change in methylation demand and nutrient use.
  • Slightly higher need for methylation cofactors to maintain homocysteine balance.
  • Individual response varies depending on diet, other gene variants, and lifestyle.

Diet and food approach

  • Focus on a balanced diet with regular servings of leafy greens and vegetables high in folate.
  • Ensure adequate dietary B12, particularly if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
  • Include quality protein sources for methionine while keeping overall intake balanced.
  • Prioritize whole foods and reduce processed food intake to support overall nutrient status.

Supplements to consider discussing with your clinician

  • Consider a B-complex if dietary intake is inconsistent.
  • Methylfolate or folic acid if tests show low folate or if recommended by a practitioner.
  • Methylcobalamin if B12 status is low or absorption is a concern.

Lifestyle and monitoring

  • Periodic blood testing for homocysteine, B12, and folate can help tailor recommendations.
  • Good sleep and stress reduction practices support methylation efficiency.
  • Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are beneficial.
No effect alleles (CC) — Typical DNMT3B activity

If you have the CC genotype, you carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This pattern is generally associated with typical DNMT3B activity and normal processing of nutrients involved in the Methionine Cycle. Your risk of methylation imbalance related to this variant is lower.

Potential implications

  • Standard requirements for SAM-e and methylation cofactors unless other factors apply.
  • Lower likelihood that this DNMT3B variant alone will create methylation imbalances.

Diet and food approach

  • Maintain a nutrient-rich diet that includes folate, B12, B6, and protein sources to support normal methylation.
  • Include a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins.

Supplements to consider discussing with your clinician

  • Most people with typical activity rarely need targeted supplements specifically for this variant.
  • Consider standard multivitamin or B-complex if dietary intake is limited or if recommended by your clinician.

Lifestyle and monitoring

  • Routine preventive care including periodic nutrient screening as indicated by your provider.
  • Healthy habits such as regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep support methylation and overall health.

Other Factors That Affect Methylation

  • Diet quality and nutrient intake of folate, B12, B6, choline, and methionine.
  • Lifestyle factors such as alcohol use, smoking, sleep, stress, and physical activity.
  • Other genetic differences in methylation and one-carbon metabolism genes can change your risk profile.
  • Medications and health conditions that alter nutrient absorption or metabolism.

Practical Next Steps

  • Share these results with your healthcare provider and discuss whether testing for homocysteine, serum folate, and B12 is appropriate.
  • Review your diet with a clinician or registered dietitian to confirm you are getting adequate methylation nutrients.
  • Consider gentle lifestyle changes that support methylation: balanced meals, sleep, stress reduction, and regular activity.
  • If considering supplements, work with your provider to choose forms and doses tailored to your needs and safety.

PlexusDx provides genetic information to help you better understand potential predispositions. This information is educational only. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, supplements, lifestyle, or medical care based on genetic results.