homocysteine definition
Homocysteine /ˌhoʊmoʊˈsɪstiːn/ is a non-protein α-amino acid. It is a homologue of the amino acid cysteine, differing by an additional methylene bridge (-CH2-). It is biosynthesized from methionine by the removal of its terminal Cε methyl group.
In a clinical study with more than 1,500 patients, Dr. K. Robinson from the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio showed that blood levels of vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid are important in lowering homocysteine levels and decreasing the risk of coronary heart disease.