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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
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Cell-free Biochemical Fluorometric Enzymatic Assay for High-throughput Measurement of Lipid Peroxidation in High Density Lipoprotein
Published on: October 12, 2017
Homocysteine: cholesterol of the 90s?
1Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, ON, Canada.
Summary
High homocysteine levels (hyperhomocysteinemia) are a risk factor for blood clots and vascular damage. Supplementing with folate and B vitamins may help correct this condition, offering a potential treatment for thromboembolic disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Medicine
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Homocysteine is a metabolite of methionine, playing roles in trans-sulfuration and remethylation pathways.
- Elevated total plasma homocysteine (tHcy) is a recognized risk factor for arterial and venous occlusive diseases.
- Homocysteine metabolism is influenced by nutrient intake (folate, vitamins B6, B12), genetic factors, age, sex, renal function, and other clinical variables.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical significance of homocysteine as a risk factor for thromboembolic disease.
- To discuss the factors influencing homocysteine levels and the challenges in its accurate measurement.
- To explore the potential benefits of vitamin supplementation in managing hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on homocysteine metabolism, clinical risk factors, and measurement techniques.
- Discussion of the impact of genetic polymorphisms on homocysteine levels.
- Analysis of the current state of research regarding vitamin supplementation for hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Results:
- Total plasma homocysteine (tHcy) is a validated clinical risk factor for cardiovascular and thromboembolic diseases.
- Accurate measurement of tHcy requires careful sample handling and specialized laboratory expertise.
- Genetic variations and physiological factors significantly impact homocysteine concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a modifiable risk factor for thromboembolic disorders.
- Correction with folate and B vitamin supplements shows promise as a therapeutic strategy.
- Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the clinical benefits of vitamin supplementation.
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