GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
It has become evident during the past few
years that homocysteine (Hcy), a sulfur-containing
amino acid involved in methionine metabolism, is a major independent risk factor
for cardiovascular disease – joining
the ranks of dyslipidemia, hypertension and smoking. An elevated level of Hcy in the blood
increases the risk of atherosclerosis, and consequently
heart attacks and strokes. Hcy causes direct damage to the
lining of blood vessels, weakening them and opening
them to the accumulation of plaque. There is also some evidence to suggest that Hcy may be a
thrombogenic agent that triggers the formation of blood clots. Interestingly, it
was recognized more than 30 years ago that individuals
with an inborn error of metabolism, cystathionine betasynthase deficiency, had a 50 to
100-fold elevation in circulating Hcy and excreted large
amounts of Hcy in the urine. Premature vascular disease and
implicated subclinical deficiencies of B-vitamins are
contributing factors. It was estimated that a 5 umol/L increase in serum Hcy is associated with 60 to
80% increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Homocysteine has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and osteoporosis.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
applicable
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
applicable
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
applicable
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
applicable
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Not applicable
