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[Hyperhomocysteinemia and cardiometabolic risk]
Helio Vannucchi1, Sandra Soares Melo
1Divisão de Nutrologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo (USP) Av. Bandeirantes, 3.900 14049-900 - Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil. hvannucc@fmrp.usp.br
Insights
High homocysteine levels (hyperhomocysteinemia) are linked to vascular diseases. This review examines the relationship, genetic and nutritional factors, and potential treatments like B vitamins.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
Context:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is a debated causal factor in vascular diseases.
- Numerous studies confirm a link between elevated homocysteine and vascular pathology.
- Understanding this link is crucial for cardiovascular health.
Purpose:
- To review the interrelation between plasma homocysteine concentrations and vascular diseases.
- To explore the role of genetic and nutritional factors in hyperhomocysteinemia.
- To elucidate the mechanisms and treatments of this condition.
Summary:
- This review synthesizes research from 1962-2009 on hyperhomocysteinemia and vascular disease.
- It investigates genetic mutations affecting homocysteine metabolism and nutritional deficiencies (B vitamins).
- Mechanisms like endothelial dysfunction and lipid peroxidation are implicated, though not fully clarified.
Impact:
- Highlights the significance of homocysteine levels as a vascular risk factor.
- Emphasizes the role of genetic predispositions and nutritional status.
- Suggests folic acid and B vitamins (B6, B12) as key treatments for hyperhomocysteinemia.
Abstract:
Hyperhomocysteinemia, when considered as a causal factor of vascular diseases, has been subject of much discussion. Case-control, retrospective and prospective studies have identified a relationship between high plasma concentrations of homocysteine and vascular disease. The aim of the present review was to better understand the interrelation between plasma concentrations of homocysteine and vascular diseases, as well as the involvement of classical risk factors for the disease: genetic factors, such as mutations in the genes that codify the enzymes involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, and nutritional factors, such as complex B vitamin deficiency. The publications of the main databases in health were consulted for the period 1962 to 2009. The mechanism by which hyperhomocysteinemia acts as a risk factor for vascular diseases still has not been fully clarified, but involvement of endothelial dysfunction and lipid peroxidation is suggested. The treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia is based on food supplements and medication, with folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12.
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