Results of a new study have revealed that high levels of the amino acid homocysteine may increase the risk of brain atrophy, or shrinking of the brain. Researchers found that people with extensive brain atrophy were significantly more likely to have high homocysteine levels. However, homocysteine levels did not appear to have any effect upon how well participants scored in mental ability tests. Previous research has linked high levels of the amino acid with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Several studies are currently underway to determine whether lowering homocysteine levels with vitamins will help to protect against Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: Neurology 2002; 58:1449-1450, 1471-1475, 1539-1541
