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[Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases: what is the role for homocysteine?]

Maria Grazia Bendini1, Gaetano Antonio Lanza, Andrea Mazza

  • 1U.O. di Cardiologia, Ospedale S. Maria della Stella, Orvieto, TR. bendini.mg@tiscalinet.it

Giornale Italiano Di Cardiologia (2006)
|April 28, 2007
PubMed

Insights

High homocysteine levels are linked to cardiovascular disease risk. However, current evidence does not support homocysteine as an independent major risk factor due to complex influencing factors and trial results.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cardiology
  • Metabolic Disorders

Context:

  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are major health concerns.
  • Classical risk factors are well-established.
  • Emerging risk markers, such as homocysteine, warrant investigation.

Purpose:

  • To review the association between homocysteine levels and cardiovascular disease risk.
  • To explore the multifactorial causes of hyperhomocysteinemia.
  • To evaluate the role of homocysteine in atherothrombosis.

Summary:

  • Homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, is implicated in cardiovascular risk.
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia results from genetic, pathophysiological, lifestyle, and drug-related factors.
  • Elevated homocysteine promotes atherothrombosis via endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and thrombophilia.

Impact:

  • Despite associations, data heterogeneity and trial outcomes limit classifying homocysteine as an independent major CVD risk factor.
  • Further research is needed to clarify homocysteine's precise role in cardiovascular pathology.
  • Understanding homocysteine metabolism is crucial for cardiovascular risk assessment.

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