Homocysteine - what is this substance?

In 1932, an amino acid such as homocysteine was first described. What is this substance? The product of methionine metabolism, a sulfur-containing and irreplaceable compound for the human body.

Homocysteine - what is it?

Despite the fact that the discovery of this substance occurred as early as the beginning of the twentieth century, the connection of its increased content with various diseases was found much later. Only in recent decades has information appeared that homocysteine affects the development of a variety of pathologies of pregnancy, cardiovascular disorders and nervous diseases. What is this substance and why can it damage the human body so badly? This amino acid is not found in proteins. It is present in the blood plasma. Its metabolism is affected by a variety of complex enzymes, as well as folic acid and B vitamins. A series of complex transmemotion reactions takes place in the liver, small intestine, kidneys and in the pancreas. If there is a violation of metabolic processes, a deficiency of enzymes that break down homocysteine is found. What does this mean for the human body? Accumulation of amino acid becomes a catalyst for dangerous processes that will cause a pathological effect over time.

Different forms of hyperhomocysteinemia

Depending on the concentration in the blood of the unutilized amino acid, the severe, moderate and mild forms of the disease are different. The cause of the first may be hereditary pathologies. Moderate form is often a consequence of impaired renal function and vitamin B12 deficiency. The mild form of hyperhomocysteinemia occurs with kidney transplantation, kidney failure, disbalance of thyroid hormones, and the intake of certain medications. Especially dangerous is the imbalance of this amino acid when carrying a child.

Homocysteine and pregnancy

This amino acid, in high quantities, contained in the blood, provokes the development of thrombi. If homocysteine is elevated in pregnancy , you should expect a number of obstetric problems. The details of this pathological action are not fully understood. But gynecologists firmly know one thing: thrombogenesis is very harmful for the blood circulation of the fetus, can cause a violation of the placentation. This may lead to defects in the implantation of the embryo. And as a consequence - to miscarriage and infertility.

Homocysteine: how to pass the analysis on the content of this amino acid?

Since this substance is an intermediate product of the exchange of other amino acids, it is necessary to take into account the presence of drugs for correction of the metabolism in the blood. Take tests on an empty stomach, you can not drink anything but water. Limit the day before the study of fatty and fried foods. Inadmissible alcohol. Physical exertion, even moderate, is undesirable. After 30 years, it is desirable to periodically give blood to homocysteine, in accordance with the results of adjusting their diet. This will serve as an excellent prophylaxis for stroke, dementia and atherosclerotic vascular lesions.