Related Experiment Videos
Hyperhomocysteinemia in dementia.
F Leblhuber1, J Walli, E Artner-Dworzak
1Department of Gerontology, Landesnervenklinik Wagner Jauregg, Linz, Austria.
Journal of Neural Transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996)
|July 19, 2001
Summary
Elevated homocysteine levels are linked to dementia and vitamin B deficiency. This study found high homocysteine and low folic acid correlate with cognitive decline in dementia patients, suggesting folic acid supplementation may help.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a known risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular disease.
- Elevated serum homocysteine levels are often correlated with vitamin B deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between homocysteine levels and cognitive decline in patients with dementia.
- To explore the potential role of folic acid in managing hyperhomocysteinemia in dementia.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
- Measurement of serum homocysteine and folic acid concentrations.
- Correlation analysis between homocysteine/folic acid levels and cognitive status.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated homocysteine levels were observed in patients with both Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
- A significant correlation was found between low folic acid concentrations and cognitive decline.
- High homocysteine concentrations were also significantly correlated with cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Elevated homocysteine and low folic acid are associated with cognitive decline in dementia patients, suggesting shared pathophysiological pathways.
- Folic acid supplementation presents a potential, cost-effective strategy for reducing homocysteine levels in demented individuals.