Description
Available in the UK only. The homocysteine test measures the amount of homocysteine in blood. Homocysteine is an intermediate metabolite of methionine metabolism and metabolised by the trans-methylation and trans-sulphation pathways. Metabolism is dependent on key nutrients including vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and folate.
Methodology
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When should I use
Elevated levels of homocysteine are well known cardiovascular disease risk factor. High homocysteine is also associated with other conditions such as dementia, osteoporosis and hypothyroidism.
Elevated homocysteine levels can also give indication of B6, folate and B12 deficiencies as well as excess methionine.
Low levels can also be problematic in relation to sulphur amino acid metabolism as it is a precursor for the formation of cysteine and in turn the production of glutathione, taurine and sulphate from methionine.
Other Details
This test is recommended to be taken after an overnight fast (8-12 hours)
