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Plasma homocyst(e)ine: a risk factor for arterial occlusive diseases

M R Malinow1

  • 1Oregon Regional Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.

The Journal of Nutrition
|April 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

High homocysteine levels increase the risk of arterial diseases. Supplementing with folate and B vitamins may lower homocysteine, but clinical trials are needed to confirm benefits for arterial occlusive diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Nutritional Science
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Plasma homocysteine is a potential risk factor for arterial occlusive diseases.
  • Heritability plays a role in influencing plasma homocysteine levels.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review literature on plasma homocysteine concentrations and their association with arterial diseases.
  • To evaluate the impact of homocysteine levels on atherothrombotic disease risk.
  • To assess the efficacy of nutrient supplementation in reducing homocysteine levels.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of basal plasma homocysteine concentrations.
  • Analysis of existing studies on homocysteine levels and arterial diseases.
  • Examination of data on the influence of heritability on homocysteine.

Main Results:

  • Findings support plasma homocysteine as a risk factor for coronary, cerebral, and peripheral arterial occlusive diseases, and carotid thickening.
  • A graded risk for atherothrombotic disease is associated with the entire distribution of plasma homocysteine levels.
  • Elevated homocysteine levels can be effectively reduced by folate supplementation, sometimes with B-12, B-6, choline, or betaine.

Conclusions:

  • Plasma homocysteine is a significant risk factor for various arterial occlusive conditions.
  • Nutrient supplementation, particularly folate, shows promise in managing elevated homocysteine levels.
  • Placebo-controlled trials are essential to determine if homocysteine reduction influences the clinical progression of arterial occlusive diseases.

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