Heterogeneity in the prevalence of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphisms in women of different ethnic groups.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms in women of different ethnic groups and to relate these common mutations to plasma homocysteine, red cell folate, and serum folate.

Design: A one-time fasting blood sample was obtained for MTHFR genotype (C677T and A1298C) determinations (n=433). Serum folate, red cell folate, and homocysteine analyses were performed in nonfolic acid supplement users (n=215).