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Hyperhomocysteinemia as a component of syndrome X

Mor Oron-Herman1, Talma Rosenthal, Ben-Ami Sela

  • 1Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.

Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental
|November 19, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Syndrome X, characterized by metabolic disorders, was linked to higher homocysteine levels in rats fed a fructose diet. This suggests hyperhomocysteinemia contributes to vascular risk in metabolic syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Metabolic Syndrome Research
  • Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Background:

  • Syndrome X (metabolic syndrome) involves hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypertension, increasing vascular disease risk.
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, often seen in insulin-resistant individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between Syndrome X and hyperhomocysteinemia using a rat model.
  • To determine if dietary factors can induce both conditions simultaneously.

Main Methods:

  • Two groups of rats were fed either a fructose-enriched diet or standard chow for 5 weeks.
  • Key metabolic markers (insulin, triglycerides, cholesterol) and homocysteine levels were measured, along with systolic blood pressure.

Main Results:

  • Fructose diet induced Syndrome X, significantly increasing insulin, triglycerides, and blood pressure.
  • Homocysteine levels were 72% higher in the fructose-fed group compared to controls (P<.01).
  • Homocysteine showed significant positive correlations with insulin, triglycerides, and systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions:

  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is an integral component of this rat model of Syndrome X.
  • Findings suggest hyperhomocysteinemia may also be a key factor in human metabolic syndrome, contributing to vascular risk.

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