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Cell-free Biochemical Fluorometric Enzymatic Assay for High-throughput Measurement of Lipid Peroxidation in High Density Lipoprotein
Published on: October 12, 2017
Homocysteine: role and implications in atherosclerosis
Sasidhar Guthikonda1, William G Haynes
1Department of Cardiology, Bayor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77584, USA. guthikon@bcm.tmc.edu
Current Atherosclerosis Reports
|March 3, 2006
Summary
Hyperhomocysteinemia, linked to B-vitamin deficiencies, accelerates atherosclerosis by increasing oxidative stress and thrombosis. Supplementing folic acid, B6, and B12 can effectively lower homocysteine levels.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Metabolic Disorders
- Nutritional Biochemistry
Background:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a condition characterized by elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood.
- It is frequently associated with deficiencies in B vitamins (folic acid, B6, B12), genetic factors, certain medications, and kidney dysfunction.
- Elevated homocysteine contributes to atherosclerosis via increased oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and promotion of thrombosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of hyperhomocysteinemia in atherosclerosis.
- To discuss the causes and consequences of elevated homocysteine levels.
- To outline appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Methods:
- Review of prospective studies and established literature on homocysteine and cardiovascular disease.
- Analysis of mechanisms by which homocysteine impacts vascular health.
- Evaluation of current treatment approaches, including vitamin supplementation.
Main Results:
- Prospective studies indicate that elevated plasma homocysteine levels double the risk of cardiovascular disease and moderately increase cerebrovascular disease risk.
- Identification of hyperhomocysteinemia is crucial in patients with unexplained or progressive atherosclerosis.
- Vitamin supplementation (folic acid, B6, B12) is the primary treatment, with betaine and 5-methyl tetrahydro-folate also showing efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events.
- Prompt identification and treatment with B vitamins are recommended for affected patients.
- Further randomized outcome trials are needed to guide treatment for moderately elevated homocysteine in individuals without existing atherosclerosis.
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