Every day, your body creates millions of new cells. Your skin renews itself, your immune system produces new cells, and tissues throughout your body are constantly repairing everyday wear and tear.
To keep this process running smoothly, your body relies on a network of vitamins, enzymes and genes working together behind the scenes.
One of these genes is SHMT1.
Although it isn’t as well known as genes like MTHFR, SHMT1 plays an important role in how your body uses folate (vitamin B9). Folate is essential for making DNA, supporting healthy cell growth and helping your body maintain and repair tissues throughout life.
The specific SHMT1 variation analyzed by dnaPower is called rs1979277. While this genetic variation does not determine your health or lifespan, it may provide insight into how your body processes folate as part of normal cellular function.
The SHMT1 (Serine Hydroxymethyltransferase 1) gene provides instructions for making an enzyme that helps your body process folate.
Think of folate as a raw material your cells need every day. SHMT1 helps convert folate into forms your body can use to:
Without enough folate—or if this pathway doesn’t function optimally—your cells may have a harder time producing the building blocks they need to function normally.
Folate is important throughout your entire life.
Every time your body makes a new cell, it must first create a complete copy of its DNA. This happens constantly in tissues that are always renewing themselves, including your blood, digestive tract, immune system and skin.
As we age, maintaining healthy cells becomes increasingly important. While many factors influence healthy aging, efficient folate metabolism helps support the body’s natural repair and renewal processes.
Like most genes, SHMT1 varies slightly from person to person.
The variation analyzed by dnaPower is called rs1979277.
Research suggests this variation may influence how your body uses folate and the availability of 5-MTHF (5-methyltetrahydrofolate), the active form of folate that supports DNA synthesis, methylation and healthy cell function.
A simple way to think about SHMT1 is as a traffic controller. It helps direct folate toward different jobs inside your cells. Some folate is used to build new DNA, while some supports other important metabolic processes.
Having this genetic variation does not mean something is wrong.
It does not mean you are deficient in folate.
It does not mean you will develop disease.
Instead, it provides another piece of information about how your body may naturally process this important nutrient.
No single gene determines your health.
SHMT1 works alongside several other genes involved in folate metabolism, including MTHFR, MTR and MTRR. Together, these genes help regulate folate metabolism, DNA synthesis and methylation.
This is why looking at a single genetic variant rarely tells the whole story. Understanding multiple genes provides a more complete picture of how your body processes nutrients.
Your genes are only one part of the picture.
The way your body uses folate is also influenced by:
Foods naturally rich in folate include leafy green vegetables, lentils, beans, broccoli, asparagus, avocados and citrus fruits.
Vitamin B6 is also important because the SHMT1 enzyme requires it to function properly. Good sources include chicken, salmon, chickpeas, potatoes and bananas.
The SHMT1 gene helps your body use folate to support healthy cell growth, DNA production and normal cellular maintenance.
The rs1979277 variation tested by dnaPower may influence how this pathway functions, but it is only one piece of a much larger picture.
Healthy aging is shaped by the interaction between your genetics, nutrition, lifestyle and environment. Understanding your DNA doesn’t predict your future—it provides valuable insight into your biology so you can make more informed health decisions.
SHMT1 rs1979277 is a common genetic variation in the SHMT1 gene. Research suggests it may influence how your body uses folate and the availability of 5-MTHF, the active form of folate involved in DNA synthesis and normal cellular function.
For more information on SHMT1 Gene Testing: https://www.dnapower.com/shmt1-gene-test/
Not necessarily. A genetic variation alone cannot determine your folate requirements. Diet, vitamin B6 and B12 status, overall health and other genes all play important roles.
No. SHMT1 and MTHFR are different genes, but they work together as part of the same folate metabolism pathway.
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This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate, science-based insights, we are not medical professionals, and this article is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding questions about your health.
Dr. Lois Nahirney founded dnaPower after a personal family health journey. She is dedicated to making the science of genetics simple and actionable. Her mission is to empower everyone with the knowledge to control their well-being.
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