Homocysteine is an intermediary in the chemical reaction of the conversion of methionine to cysteine. There is no information about the “useful” functions of this amino acid, but there are a lot of scientific work about the excess (hyperhomocysteinemia).

The cause lies in an aggressive effect on the walls of blood vessels. Cholesterol and calcium are deposited on the damaged part of the vessel, which is a link in the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. For example, 13-47% of examined patients with coronary heart disease have increased homocysteine in their blood. There is also a high probability of blood clots, which is especially dangerous for pregnant women.  Vitamin B12 and folic acid influence positively on the metabolism of homocysteine, they are necessary to reduce the concentration of this amino acid in the blood.  Hyperhomocysteinemia occurs when they are deficient.

Homocysteine is of particular importance in the examination of pregnant women. As mentioned above, the amino acid leads to thrombosis. Such a clot can clog the placenta which connects the mother and the child. In such case, both the child and the mother's lives are in danger.

It is possible to lower the amount of homocysteine by taking vitamin B12 and folic acid. Therefore, it is recommended to take analyses in conjunction with these vitamins.

Homocysteine complicates the course of a number of such diseases as diabetes (accelerates the development of specific vascular damage, so that blood does not flow to the limbs); cerebral stroke and myocardial infarction.

Read more: “HOMOCYSTEINE IS A NEW RISK FACTOR FOR HEART DISEASE AND PREGNANCY FAILURE”