HOMOCYSTEINE TEST
The Homocysteine Test is a serum assessment of homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid requiring vitamins B12, B6, and folate to break down and metabolize to create other chemicals your body needs. High homocysteine levels may indicate a vitamin deficiency. Without treatment, elevated homocysteine increases your risks for dementia, heart disease, and stroke. Homocysteine is an amino acid containing sulfur that is not used for protein synthesis. It is formed during the methionine cycle, also known as the transculturation methylation cycle, which plays a crucial role in linking sulfur amino acid metabolism with important methylation reactions. Homocysteine can be produced by breaking down S-adenosylmethionine or by converting homocysteine thiolactone, a toxic substance, to homocysteine using paraoxonase 1 (PON1), an enzyme that also helps detoxify organophosphate pesticides.
Patients Who Benefit from This Test:
- Atherosclerosis
- Certain Cancers
- Depression
- Insulin Resistance
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Osteoporosis
- Psychiatric Disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Type 2 Diabetes
For detailed results and personalized advice, our tests offer easy-to-understand reports, and our customer support team is available to assist with any questions.