Homokysteiinin

Homokysteiini is an amino acid that is not incorporated into proteins. It is an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid. Homocysteine is synthesized from methionine and then converted back to methionine or to cysteine, another amino acid. This metabolic pathway requires the presence of several vitamins, including B6, B12, and folate.

Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood, a condition known as hyperhomocysteinemia, have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and neural tube defects in newborns. The exact mechanisms by which high homocysteine levels contribute to these conditions are still being investigated, but it is thought to involve damage to the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels) and promotion of blood clot formation.

Factors that can lead to hyperhomocysteinemia include genetic variations affecting homocysteine metabolism, deficiencies in B vitamins, kidney disease, and certain medications. Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying cause, such as vitamin supplementation, and lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise. However, it is important to note that the role of homocysteine lowering in preventing cardiovascular disease is still a subject of ongoing research and clinical debate.