top of page

Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

lab-scientists-blood-urine-test-analysis

Methionine-to-Sulfur Ratio

extraction-plasma-from-blood

MET / SULF

Description

"Methionine-to-Sulfur Ratio" test measures the balance between methionine, an essential amino acid, and sulfur metabolites that play a role in methylation and detoxification. Doctors may recommend it when metabolic dysfunction, fatigue, or liver strain is suspected. An imbalanced ratio may indicate disrupted methylation, poor nutrient processing, or sulfur metabolism issues. A blood sample is used to assess this balance. Results help guide targeted care through dietary changes, supplements, or deeper metabolic testing to restore function and energy.

"Methionine-to-Sulfur Ratio" test measures the balance between methionine, an essential amino acid, and sulfur metabolites that play a role in methylation and detoxification. Doctors may recommend it when metabolic dysfunction, fatigue, or liver strain is suspected. An imbalanced ratio may indicate disrupted methylation, poor nutrient processing, or sulfur metabolism issues. A blood sample is used to assess this balance. Results help guide targeted care through dietary changes, supplements, or deeper metabolic testing to restore function and energy.

Category

Metabolites, Essential Nutrients

Procedure

Invasive

Sample Type

Blood – Plasma

Units

Ratio

Procedure Category

Blood Draw

Test Group

Methylation Group

Test Group Description

Methylation Group: Centered on evaluating methylation levels and associated parameters, this group provides insights into methylation processes and their related health implications.

Optimal Range

For All Individuals:

  • Conventional Unit: Not Available

  • SI Unit: Not Available

Normal Range

For All Individuals:

  • Conventional Unit: 0.55–0.64 R

  • SI Unit: Not Applicable

Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)

Increased levels may indicate:


  • Amino acid (sulfur) supplementation

  • Cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency (Genetic disorder affecting methionine metabolism)

  • Homocystinuria (Genetic disorder resulting in elevated homocysteine and methionine levels)

  • Kidney dysfunction

  • Methionine adenosyltransferase deficiency (Deficiency in the enzyme responsible for met...

Key Reasons For Testing

  • Assessment of Sulfur Amino Acid Metabolism: Evaluates the balance between methionine, cysteine, and other sulfur-containing compounds.

  • Diagnosis of Sulfur Metabolism Disorders: Detects conditions like homocystinuria and cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency.

  • Newborn Screening: Identifies inherited metabolic disorders early for timely intervention.

  • Assessment of Liver Function: Reflects alterations in liver health through sulfur metabolism.

  • Evaluation of Nutritional Status: Assesses dietary intake and metabolism of sulfur amino acids.

Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess

Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.

Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test

Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.

References

Important Note

Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.


Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.

Disclaimer

This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.


Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.

[1] Brosnan JT, Brosnan ME. The sulfur-containing amino acids: an overview. J Nutr. 2006;136(6 Suppl):1636S-1640S.
[2] Finkelstein JD. Methionine metabolism in mammals. J Nutr Biochem. 1990;1(5):228-237.
[3] Stipanuk MH. Metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids. Annu Rev Nutr. 1986;6:179-209.
[4] Lu SC. Regulation of hepatic S-adenosylmethionine synthesis and its role in liver disease. Hepatology. 2000;32(5):1343-1345.
[5] Zeisel SH. Methionine. Encyclopedia of Human Nutrition. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2005:155-161.
[6] Refsum H, Smith AD, Ueland PM, et al. Facts and recommendations about total homocysteine determinations: an expert opinion. Clin Chem. 2004;50(1):3-32.
[7] Mudd SH, Finkelstein JD, Refsum H, Ueland PM, Malinow MR, Lentz SR, Jacobsen DW. Homocysteine and its disulfide derivatives: a suggested consensus terminology. J Nutr. 2000;130(2):605-607.
[8] Brosnan JT, da Silva RP, Brosnan ME. The metabolic burden of methionine metabolism in liver. J Nutr. 2007;137(6 Suppl):1736S-1741S.
[9] Storch KJ, Wagner DA, Burke JF, Young VR. Methionine kinetics in adult men: effects of dietary protein intake and tracer label selection. Am J Physiol. 1990;258(2 Pt 1).
[10] Benevenga NJ, Steele RD. Adverse effects of excessive consumption of amino acids. Annu Rev Nutr. 1984;4:157-181.
[11] Finkelstein JD, Martin JJ. Methionine metabolism in mammals. Adaptation to methionine excess. J Biol Chem. 1986;261(4):1582-1587.

If You Found This Test Helpful, You Might Also Like..

bottom of page