This pilot study is designed to investigate differences in folate-related genes (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and their relationship to the species of folate present on red blood cells.

The main questions to be addressed in this pilot study are:

1. what is the type of folate in red blood cells in individuals with different methylterahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genotypes
2. what is the relationship between other folate metabolism-related gene single nucleotide polymorphisms and type (species) of folate found in red blood cells
3. what is the relationship between folate and other B vitamin status, genotype and folate species
4. is there a relationship between serum ferritin status and folate metabolism

Whole blood will be taken from apparently healthy male and female volunteers, aged 18-65, which will be used to determine genotype for various folate metabolism-related genes. Furthermore, the type of folate present on the red blood cells will be assessed, and folate, vitamin B12, riboflavin and serum ferritin status determined.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18-65
• Males and females
• Body Mass Index greater than 19.5 and less than 40
• Smokers and non-smokers

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or been pregnant in last 12 months
• Diabetes
• Parallel participation in another research project if total amount of blood from combined studies is greater than 470ml
• Participation in another research project where blood samples were taken within the past 4 months, unless total blood volume does not exceed 470ml
• Any person related to or living with a member of the study team
• Has donated or intends to donate blood within 16 weeks (prior to or after) the study

Healthy adults (male and female) aged 18-65