homocysteine
Quick Summary
Homocysteine is an amino acid produced in animal metabolism through the demethylation of methionine. It is represented by the chemical formula C4H9NO2S.1
High levels of homocysteine in the blood have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.1
Homocystinuria is a hereditary metabolic disorder related to methionine. In this condition, a defective enzyme prevents the conversion of homocysteine to cystathionine. This leads to elevated concentrations of homocysteine and methionine in the blood plasma. Symptoms can include intellectual disability, lens displacement in the eyes, skeletal deformities, and blood vessel blockages. Dietary therapy may be beneficial.2
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human nutritionAdulthood…levels of the amino acid homocysteine have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and with Alzheimer disease, the most common form of dementia; certain B vitamins, particularly folic acid, may be effective in lowering homocysteine levels. High concentrations of aluminum in
Read More…levels of the amino acid homocysteine have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and with Alzheimer disease, the most common form of dementia; certain B vitamins, particularly folic acid, may be effective in lowering homocysteine levels. High concentrations of aluminum in
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nutritional diseaseOther factorsThe amino acid homocysteine, when present in elevated amounts in blood, may damage arteries and promote atherosclerosis. Inadequate intake of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, or folic acid can increase blood homocysteine levels, although folic acid deficiency is the most common cause. While elevated homocysteine is not yet an…
Read MoreThe amino acid homocysteine, when present in elevated amounts in blood, may damage arteries and promote atherosclerosis. Inadequate intake of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, or folic acid can increase blood homocysteine levels, although folic acid deficiency is the most common cause. While elevated homocysteine is not yet an…
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