Description
What is FRAT®?
FRAT® (Folate Receptor Autoantibody Test) is a diagnostic blood test that screens for autoantibodies against the Folate Receptor Alpha (FRα), known as folate receptor autoantibodies.
These autoantibodies can interfere with the normal transport of folate (vitamin B9), an essential nutrient required for proper neurological function, development, and cellular health. When this transport is impaired, folate may not effectively reach the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), as well as other tissues where the folate receptor is active.
Early Detection – Early Intervention – Optimal Outcomes
Identifying folate receptor autoantibodies early is critical. Their presence has been associated with several conditions, including:
• Cerebral Folate Deficiency Syndrome
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• Schizophrenia
• Depression
• Neural Tube Defects
• Other neurodevelopmental conditions
Early detection allows for timely diagnosis and more targeted management strategies, which may improve outcomes.
Why FRAT® Matters
FRAT® was developed in the laboratory of Dr. Edward Quadros at the State University of New York (SUNY Downstate). It is the only assay currently available that screens for both blocking and binding folate receptor autoantibodies.
Published in the New England Journal of Medicine and used in multiple clinical trials, FRAT® is considered the leading diagnostic tool for detecting these specific antibodies.
Timely intervention—such as the use of alternate reduced folates and individualized dietary strategies—may support better neurological and developmental outcomes.
FRAT® and Autism
Autism prevalence continues to rise, with the CDC reporting approximately 1 in 36 children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Research shows that folate receptor autoantibodies are highly prevalent in children with ASD. The folate receptor alpha plays a key role in transporting folate into the brain and developing tissues. When autoantibodies interfere with this process, it may contribute to neurological dysfunction.
Identifying this mechanism early may open the door to targeted interventions, including the use of specialized folate forms that bypass receptor blockage.
Why Consider FRAT® Now?
Early diagnosis is key.
By identifying whether folate transport is impaired, FRAT® provides actionable insight that can guide more precise and personalized approaches. This allows you and your practitioner to address underlying mechanisms—not just symptoms.
What Happens After the Test?
If folate receptor autoantibodies are present, targeted strategies may be considered, including:
• Use of alternate reduced folate forms
• Nutritional and dietary adjustments
• Individualized functional medicine support
All results should be interpreted in the context of your overall health and discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
Test Logistics (Important)
• FRAT® is a blood draw test
• The kit includes all necessary materials for sample collection
• Shipping the sample back to the lab and the blood draw fee are NOT included in the price
Please note:
Blood draw fees vary depending on location and provider.
Typical pricing starts around $25 and may be higher depending on your city and state.
You should be prepared to cover this cost separately at your local lab or phlebotomy service.
What’s Included with Your Purchase
Your FRAT® test through Hormunity is not just a lab—it’s part of a guided process.
Your purchase includes:
• Review of your test results
• Follow-up consultation with a qualified practitioner
• Discussion of personalized approaches based on your findings
We focus on translating data into real, actionable steps—always individualized, never one-size-fits-all.
USA only
