homocysteine

/ ˌhəʊməʊˈsɪstiːn /

noun

1. an amino acid occurring as an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine. Elevated levels in the blood may indicate increased risk of cardiovascular disease

homocysteine

/ hō′mə-sĭs′tə-ēn′,-ĭn,-tē- /

1. An amino acid used normally by the body in cellular metabolism and the manufacture of proteins. Elevated concentrations in the blood are thought to increase the risk for heart disease by damaging the lining of blood vessels and increasing the risk of blood clot formation. High homocysteine levels are associated with certain vitamin deficiencies and metabolic disorders. Chemical formula: C 4 H 9 NO 2 S.

Example Sentences

Ahmad and his colleagues called particular attention to higher levels of a useful amino acid called alanine as well as lower levels of another amino acid called homocysteine that is elevated in people with heart disease.

From Los Angeles Times

“Vegans are also at a higher risk of B12-deficiency, since the nutrient is only naturally available from animal foods. Low B12 levels may be linked to raised blood levels of homocysteine, which may be linked to higher risk of stroke.”

From The Guardian

The affected crew members were found to have significantly higher concentrations of a chemical called homocysteine, not only during and after the flight, but before as well.

From BBC

Homocysteine is part of a biochemical pathway occurring in virtually every cell in the body, and requires many different types of B vitamin to function.

From BBC

This vitamin helps regulate the levels of the amino acid homocysteine in your blood, which when unchecked can harden the arteries and increase the risk for heart attack, stroke and blood clots, Bihuniak says.

From Washington Post