What is the Difference Between Folinic Acid and Methylfolate?

Folinic acid and methylfolate are two forms of folate, a water-soluble vitamin essential in periods of rapid growth, maintenance of new cells, and the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate found in supplements and fortified foods. The difference between folinic acid and methylfolate lies in their structure and how they are processed in the body:

• Folinic Acid: A non-methylated form of folate that converts quickly into the active L-5-MTHF (methylfolate) form in the body. Folinic acid does not require the action of the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase for its conversion, which allows for many metabolic processes to occur in the presence of dihydrofolate reductase inhibition.
• Methylfolate: Also known as 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate or 5-MTHF, methylfolate is the natural "activated" form of folic acid that does not require any conversion. It is the most stable and bioavailable form of folate and is used by our cells to perform various functions.

Individuals with a MTHFR gene mutation may not be able to convert dietary folate and folic acid supplements into the active forms, increasing the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, and elevated homocysteine levels. In such cases, folinic acid or methylfolate supplementation is generally recommended. However, for those with normal MTHFR gene variations, folic acid is still considered suitable.

Comparative Table: Folinic Acid vs Methylfolate

Folinic acid and methylfolate are two forms of folate, which is a B-vitamin essential for various bodily functions. The key difference between folinic acid and methylfolate is that folinic acid is a metabolically active form of folate, while methylfolate is a more bioavailable and active form of folate. Here is a comparison table of the differences between folinic acid and methylfolate:

Folinic acid is used to decrease the toxic effects of methotrexate and cysteine cycle, and regulation of homocysteine. On the other hand, methylfolate is the natural "activated" form of folic acid that does not require any conversion or enzymatic activation. It is generally agreed upon that folinic acid or methylfolate supplementation is recommended for individuals with an MTHFR gene mutation.