Contributions of hyperhomocysteinemia to atherosclerosis: Causal relationship and potential mechanisms

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Mutations in the enzymes and/or nutritional deficiencies in B vitamins required for homocysteine metabolism can induce HHcy. Studies using genetic- or diet-induced animal models of HHcy have demonstrated a causal relationship between HHcy and accelerated atherosclerosis. …