Testing

MTHFR Genetic Testing

$600

The MTHFR test looks for common variations in the MTHFR gene (C677T and A1298C) that may affect the body’s ability to process folate (vitamin B9) and support healthy methylation — a key biochemical pathway involved in detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cellular function.

While MTHFR variants are common in the general population and do not diagnose autism, some individuals with autism may benefit from understanding whether their folate and methylation pathways need extra nutritional support. When appropriate, results may help guide personalized nutrition plans using forms of folate and B-vitamins that are easier for the body to use.


What the Test Includes?

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  • Analysis of the two most clinically relevant MTHFR variants

    • C677T

    • A1298C

  • Clear explanation of whether 0, 1, or 2 copies of each variant are present

  • Guidance on how these results may relate to folate metabolism & methylation

  • Follow-up recommendations when appropriate


Why Consider Testing?


Some autistic individuals may experience challenges related to:

  • Folate metabolism

  • Methylation pathway efficiency

  • Detoxification support

  • Nutrient utilization


For those children, knowing their MTHFR status may help personalize care in areas such as:


  • Folate metabolism

  • Methylation pathway efficiency

  • Detoxification support

  • Nutrient utilization


This test provides information only and does not diagnose autism or predict developmental outcomes. Results are always interpreted within the larger clinical picture.


How It Works


Our Leucovorin Treatment Program is offered in-office as part of our biomedical services for autism. It includes:

  1. Simple sample collection (cheek swab or blood test)

  2. Certified laboratory analysis

  3. Personalized review of results

  4. Optional nutritional + treatment recommendations based on findings


Treatment is closely supervised and fully integrated into your child’s overall care plan.


Who May Benefit?


  • Children with autism or developmental delays

  • Children with low folate/B-vitamin levels

  • Children with elevated homocysteine

  • Families pursuing a personalized, nutrition-focused approach


Important Note


MTHFR variants are common and, by themselves, rarely cause medical problems. For many individuals, treatment involves general nutrition support regardless of genetic status.

This test is most helpful when interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other lab findings such as homocysteine, folate, and B-vitamin levels.

Folate Receptor Antibody (FRAT / FRAA) Testing

$600

The Folate Receptor Antibody Test (FRAT) measures antibodies that can interfere with the body’s ability to transport folate into the brain. Folate is essential for healthy neurological development, cellular growth, and communication between brain cells.

In some individuals — including a notable subset of children with autism — these antibodies may reduce the amount of folate reaching the central nervous system. Identifying this condition can help guide whether targeted treatment with folinic acid (leucovorin) may be beneficial.


Why This Matters


When folate cannot effectively cross the blood-brain barrier due to these antibodies, a condition called Cerebral Folate Deficiency (CFD) may occur.

Some children with CFD may experience:

  • Language delay

  • Irritability

  • Sleep disturbance

  • Motor or coordination challenges

  • Feeding and GI concerns


Research suggests that appropriate treatment may support improvement in some of these areas when CFD is present.
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What the Test Measures


This test looks for:

  • Blocking antibodies (Antibodies that interfere with folate binding)

  • Binding antibodies (Antibodies attaching to folate receptor proteins)


Both may contribute to reduced folate transport into the brain.


Why Consider Testing?


FRAT may be helpful for children with:

  • Autism spectrum disorder

  • Developmental delay

  • Speech/language impairment

  • Neurological symptoms

  • Low folate in cerebrospinal fluid (when known)


A positive test may guide targeted therapeutic support with folinic acid (leucovorin) under clinician supervision.


What the Results Tell Us


Results include:

  • Presence / absence of folate receptor antibodies

  • Quantitative antibody levels

  • Whether CFD-guided treatment may be appropriate


This test does not diagnose autism but rather identifies a potentially reversible metabolic contributor in some individuals.


How It Works​​​​​​​


  1. Simple blood draw

  2. Certified laboratory analysis

  3. Review of results with clinician

  4. Individualized treatment discussion if indicated


Next Steps After Testing


If antibodies are found, families may be offered:

  • Trial of folinic acid (leucovorin)

  • Follow-up visits to monitor symptoms

  • Dose adjustments based on clinical response


Treatment decisions are individualized.


Important Notes


  • Not all autistic children have folate receptor antibodies.

  • A positive result does not guarantee benefit from treatment.

  • A negative result does not rule out methylation or folate-related challenges.

  • Interpretation is always done in context of your child’s full medical picture.

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