13-Homocysteine Flashcards
1
Q
what is homocysteine
A
naturally produced by body when it breaks down protein
2
Q
what causes homocysteine accumulation in the cells and body fluids
A
low levels of B6, B12, and folate
3
Q
why is high levels of homocysteine damaging to the body
A
interferes with the normal cross linking of collagen
4
Q
what factors increase the levels of homocysteine
A
- age
- post menopausal women
- renal failure
- hypthyroidism
- leukemias
- psoriasis
5
Q
what drugs will increase homocysteine levels
A
- methotrexate
- NO
- isoniazid
- antiepileptic drugs
6
Q
how are increased levels of homocysteine treated
A
vitamin B6 pills
7
Q
dietary sources of folate
A
- OJ
- cereals
- grains
- green leafy veges
- legumes
8
Q
dietary sources of B6
A
- meat
- chx
- fish
- grains
- legumes
9
Q
dietary sources of B12
A
- cereals
- soy milk
- liver
10
Q
how are each of the 7 distinct homocysteinurias characterized
A
increase concentration of the sulfur containing amino acid homocysteine in blood and urine
