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Importance of elevated plasma homocysteine levels as a risk factor for atherosclerosis
P A Masser1, L M Taylor, J M Porter
1Division of Vascular Surgery, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098.
Insights
Elevated homocysteine, an amino acid, is a potential risk factor for atherosclerosis, a major cause of death. This review examines homocysteine
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of mortality and morbidity globally.
- Elevated plasma homocysteine is a potential risk factor for atherosclerosis development.
- Understanding the role of homocysteine in vascular disease is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biochemical properties of homocysteine.
- To examine the evidence linking homocysteine to atherosclerosis.
- To explore potential therapies for managing homocysteine levels.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical, laboratory, and clinical studies.
- Analysis of homocysteine's biochemical characteristics.
- Evaluation of therapeutic interventions for hyperhomocysteinemia.
Main Results:
- Homocysteine's biochemical profile supports its role in atherogenesis.
- Evidence from multiple study types indicates a pathological link.
- Therapies exist to reduce homocysteine levels.
Conclusions:
- Elevated homocysteine is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis.
- Reducing homocysteine levels may offer a therapeutic strategy.
- Further research into homocysteine-lowering therapies is warranted.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death and disability in the Western world, and an important risk factor for it may be an elevated level of the plasma amino acid homocysteine. The biochemical characteristics of homocysteine, along with historical, laboratory, and clinical evidence for its pathologic role in atherosclerosis, are reviewed. Possible therapies for reducing elevated homocysteine levels and the possible impact of therapy in atherosclerosis are examined.