Levomefolic acid (L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate) (L-5-MTHF)

L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, also known as levomefolic acid, is the **predominant active form of folate used directly by cells**. It is vital for methyl group donation in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, supporting DNA synthesis, repair, and neurotransmitter production. It is especially critical during periods of rapid cell division, such as embryonic development, and is the main circulating form of folate capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier[1][2][6][10]. Supplementation is beneficial for individuals with genetic variants affecting folate metabolism, most notably the MTHFR gene[8][6]. L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate is not itself a classical drug target, but is a metabolite and coenzyme necessary for multiple cellular reactions, and its deficiency or altered handling is associated with diseases ranging from cardiovascular to neurodevelopmental disorders[2][4][8][10].

Other names

L-methylfolate(6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate(6S)-5-MTHF5-MTHF5-methyl-THFN5-methylfolateCalcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolateLevomefolate calciumDeplin

Provides methyl groups for methylation reactions; Promotes homocysteine conversion to methionine