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Homocysteine in non-valvular atrial fibrillation: Role and clinical implications

Yan Yao1, Mei-Sheng Shang1, Jian-Zeng Dong1

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.

Clinica Chimica Acta; International Journal of Clinical Chemistry
|October 21, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Homocysteine (Hcy) is linked to atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke risk. This review explores Hcy

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology and Neurology
  • Biomarkers and Cardiovascular Disease

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia with significant socioeconomic impact.
  • Novel risk factors for AF and AF-related stroke are increasingly recognized.
  • Homocysteine (Hcy) is emerging as a significant factor associated with AF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the association between homocysteine (Hcy) and atrial fibrillation (AF).
  • To discuss the role of Hcy in ischemic stroke, thromboembolic events, and rhythm outcomes in AF patients, particularly the elderly.
  • To explore the underlying mechanisms linking elevated Hcy to cardiovascular events in AF.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review synthesizing current evidence on homocysteine and atrial fibrillation.
  • Discussion of Hcy as a marker for pro-oxidation and pro-inflammation in vascular diseases.
  • Analysis of clinical implications and potential mechanisms involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and atrial remodeling.

Main Results:

  • Growing evidence supports a strong relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) levels and atrial fibrillation (AF).
  • Elevated Hcy is implicated in increased risk of AF-related stroke and thromboembolic events.
  • Hcy's role in oxidative stress, inflammation, and atrial remodeling contributes to cardiovascular events in AF.

Conclusions:

  • Homocysteine (Hcy) is a significant factor in atrial fibrillation (AF) pathogenesis and complications.
  • Understanding the Hcy-AF link is crucial for managing stroke risk and improving outcomes in AF patients.
  • Targeting Hcy may offer novel therapeutic strategies for AF and related cardiovascular events.

Keywords:
AgingAtrial fibrillationHomocysteineIschemic strokeRecurrence

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