Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
09:43
Measurement of Heme Synthesis Levels in Mammalian Cells
Published on: July 9, 2015
11.4K
[Homocysteine levels: measure or not?]
Yvo M Smulders1, Martin den Heijer, Henk J Blom
1VU Medisch Centrum, Amsterdam.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|October 31, 2013
Summary
Elevated homocysteine levels, even within the normal range, predict cardiovascular risk. However, B vitamin trials show no reduction in cardiovascular disease, suggesting caution in screening and treatment for hyperhomocysteinaemia.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Elevated fasting plasma homocysteine is a significant cardiovascular risk factor.
- Hyperhomocysteinaemia is commonly caused by low B vitamin levels or reduced kidney function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of B vitamin interventions in reducing cardiovascular disease in individuals with hyperhomocysteinaemia.
- To address methodological limitations in previous interventional trials.
Main Methods:
- Review of interventional trials using B vitamins to lower homocysteine levels.
- Analysis of trial designs, participant selection, and dosage considerations.
Main Results:
- B vitamin interventions effectively lowered homocysteine concentrations.
- No significant reduction in cardiovascular disease rates was observed in treated individuals.
- Methodological concerns include focus on mild hyperhomocysteinaemia and potential effects of high-dose folic acid.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not support widespread screening for hyperhomocysteinaemia.
- Screening is recommended only for severe premature vascular disease or suspected inherited disorders.
- Treatment with B vitamins should be reserved for severe cases of hyperhomocysteinaemia.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System II: CRP, Hcy, and Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Markers
769
Cardiac biomarkers are critical in diagnosing, prognosing, and managing cardiovascular diseases. Routine measurement of specific biomarkers such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine (Hcy) is common practice in clinical settings to evaluate heart function and predict cardiovascular events.
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...
These markers indicate stress or strain on the heart muscle:
Natriuretic Peptides (BNP)
Cardiac myocytes produce these hormones in response to ventricular stretching...
769
01:24Serum Studies: Renal Function Tests
699
Renal function tests are crucial for assessing kidney health, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating the kidneys' efficiency in waste elimination, fluid balance, and electrolyte regulation. These tests offer critical insights into kidney function, even though routine measurements may appear normal until there is a significant decline in the glomerular filtration rate or GFR. Typically, signs of kidney impairment only become evident when the GFR falls to about 50% of its normal level.
699
01:22Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Pathophysiologic Assessment and Liver Function Test
275
In clinical practice, the direct measurement of hepatic blood flow to evaluate liver function presents significant challenges due to the intricate and specialized nature of the necessary techniques. Consequently, healthcare professionals often rely on empirical estimates derived from thorough patient examinations and liver function tests to gauge liver health. Among the tools at their disposal, the Child–Pugh and MELD scoring systems stand out for their ability to categorize and assess...
275
01:23Drug Concentrations: Measurements
1.7K
Drug concentration is the quantity of a drug present in a biological sample. Measuring drug amounts in biological samples allows the clinician to understand how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. Samples can be obtained through invasive or non-invasive methods. Invasive techniques involve surgical or parenteral interventions to gather blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or tissue biopsy. Conversely, non-invasive approaches provide samples like urine, feces, and saliva.
Plasma...
Plasma...
1.7K
01:25Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System III: Serum Lipid Profile
859
Understanding serum lipids is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and preventing heart disease and stroke.
Serum lipids are fats and fatty substances in the blood and are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy storage, cellular structure, and hormone production. Serum lipids consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is crucial for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid...
Serum lipids are fats and fatty substances in the blood and are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy storage, cellular structure, and hormone production. Serum lipids consist of cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is crucial for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid...
859