HOMOCYSTEINE

Homocysteine is a sulphur containing amino acid that is produced thru the demethylation
of methionine into cysteine. Regulation is based on the intake of folate (B6), and
cobalamin (B12) as well as based on genetic factors that govern the cofactor ability to
also produce homocysteines. Therefore B6 and B 12 can prevent this enzymatic reaction
from occurring.
When there are high amounts of homocysteine (homocysteinemia) that are assimilated or
excreted into the blood plasma it can be caused by:
1. Venous thrombosis (thrombogenesis) due to a direct toxic effect on the
endothelial tissue of the vascular system, causing an arterial/venous occlusion
condition leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease
2. B12 or folic acid deficiency,
3. Pregnancy complications
4. Patients with reduced renal function (homocysteinuria).
NORMAL VALUES 4-17 umol/L or .54-2.30mg/L