Role of Hyperhomocysteinemia in Atherosclerosis

An elevated level of plasma total homocysteine is a pathological condition known as hyperhomocysteinemia. Studies have shown that homocysteine can induce apoptotic cell death and a relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia and atherosclerosis has been reported. This chapter will summarize the dietary and genetic factors that induce hyperhomocysteinemia. In addition, animal models of hyperhomocysteinemia will be discussed along with the potential cellular mechanisms that could cause hyperhomocysteinemia to induce cell death and accelerate atherosclerosis.