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Homocysteine in myointimal hyperplasia.
M Hansrani1, J I Gillespie, G Stansby
1Department of Surgery, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Summary
Homocysteine
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Vascular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Homocysteine, a non-essential amino acid, is implicated in atherosclerosis.
- Its role in myointimal hyperplasia, a cause of interventional procedure failure, is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing scientific data on homocysteine's role in myointimal hyperplasia.
- To elucidate potential mechanisms of homocysteine's action on vascular tissue.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review using MEDLINE and other databases.
- Inclusion of evidence from cell culture, animal models, and clinical studies.
Main Results:
- Clinical studies show a link between plasma homocysteine and restenosis, but results are contradictory.
- Cell and animal studies suggest mechanisms involving endothelial cell activation and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation.
- No randomized trials currently exist.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to clarify homocysteine's role in myointimal hyperplasia pathogenesis.
- If confirmed, homocysteine normalization presents a potential therapeutic target.