Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Intracoronary Acetylcholine Provocation Testing for Assessment of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders
Published on: August 18, 2016
[Homocysteine as a coronary risk factor]
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.
More Related Videos
07:29Cell-free Biochemical Fluorometric Enzymatic Assay for High-throughput Measurement of Lipid Peroxidation in High Density Lipoprotein
Published on: October 12, 2017
10:03Coronary Progenitor Cells and Soluble Biomarkers in Cardiovascular Prognosis after Coronary Angioplasty
Published on: January 28, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System II: CRP, Hcy, and Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Markers
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies