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[Homocysteine as a coronary risk factor]

S A Derbeneva, A V Pogozheva

    Voprosy Pitaniia
    |November 19, 2003
    PubMed

    Insights

    High blood homocysteine levels increase atherosclerosis risk. This review explores soy products, folate, and vitamins B6/B12 for homocysteine-reducing therapy in cardiovascular disease patients.

    Area of Science:

    • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
    • Cardiovascular Medicine
    • Nutritional Science

    Context:

    • Numerous clinical and epidemiological trials link elevated blood homocysteine to increased risk of coronary, cerebral, and peripheral atherosclerosis.
    • The homocysteine theory of atherosclerosis is supported by its pro-oxidant actions, enhancement of platelet aggregation, and inhibition of endothelial cell growth.
    • Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality worldwide, necessitating research into novel therapeutic targets and strategies.

    Purpose:

    • To review the role of homocysteine as a risk marker for atherosclerosis.
    • To explore the potential of homocysteine-reducing therapies, including soy products, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12, for managing cardiovascular diseases.
    • To synthesize current evidence on the homocysteine theory of atherosclerosis and its therapeutic implications.

    Summary:

    • High blood homocysteine levels are established markers for increased risk of atherosclerosis across multiple vascular beds.
    • Mechanisms linking homocysteine to atherosclerosis include pro-oxidant effects, platelet hyper-reactivity, and impaired endothelial cell function.
    • Dietary interventions, specifically soy products, folate, and vitamins B6/B12, are proposed as therapeutic strategies to lower homocysteine and mitigate cardiovascular risk.

    Impact:

    • Provides a comprehensive overview of the homocysteine theory of atherosclerosis, consolidating evidence from clinical and epidemiological studies.
    • Highlights the therapeutic potential of readily available nutritional interventions for cardiovascular disease prevention and management.
    • Informs healthcare professionals and researchers about homocysteine as a modifiable risk factor and potential therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine.

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