Methylation is an important metabolic process. Methylation is used by cells as a way to activate or deactivate molecules through the transfer of methyl groups. As methyl groups are made up of one carbon molecule, this cyclical metabolic process is sometimes called the one-carbon cycle. Evidence suggests that methylation and the one carbon cycle must function correctly for normal mental function. Dyregulation of the methylation process is thought to contribute to depression. S-adenosylmethionine is a methyl donor that takes part in the one carbon cycle, and evidence suggests that supplementation with S-adenosylmethionine is a possible treatment for depression. For example, in one study researchers administered S-adenosylmethionine to depressed patients who were not currently taking antidepressants. The results of the study showed that the S-adenosylmethionine supplements caused a clinically relevant reduction in mild depressive symptoms of the patients in comparison to a placebo.
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