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The association of homocysteine and coronary artery disease

Gregory M Gauthier1, Jon G Keevil, Patrick E McBride

  • 1Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin 53792, USA. gm.gauthier@hosp.wisc.edu

Clinical Cardiology
|December 18, 2003
PubMed

Insights

High homocysteine levels (hyperhomocysteinemia) are linked to heart disease risk. Folic acid effectively lowers homocysteine, but its impact on preventing heart events requires further study.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction.
  • Elevated homocysteine levels can result from genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, diseases, or medications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the biochemistry of homocysteine metabolism.
  • To discuss the etiology and pathogenesis of hyperhomocysteinemia.
  • To explore the association between hyperhomocysteinemia and coronary artery disease, including screening and treatment options.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of prospective case-control studies.
  • Analysis of biochemical pathways and genetic factors.
  • Examination of clinical trial data on homocysteine-lowering therapies.

Main Results:

  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular events.
  • Folic acid and B-complex vitamins effectively reduce homocysteine concentrations.
  • The clinical benefit of homocysteine reduction on coronary event risk remains uncertain.

Conclusions:

  • Hyperhomocysteinemia is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
  • While effective in lowering homocysteine, the role of folic acid in preventing coronary events needs further investigation.
  • Comprehensive understanding of homocysteine metabolism and its clinical implications is crucial for cardiovascular health.

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