noun

• An amino acid which occurs in the body as an intermediate in the metabolism of methionine and cysteine.

  Chemical formula: HSCH₂CH₂CH(NH₂)COOH

  ‘Metabolism of homocysteine requires an adequate supply of folic acid.’

  More example sentences

  • ‘It also lowers the levels of amino acid homocysteine which, when found in high levels in the bloodstream, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.’
  • ‘Levels of homocysteine, the amino acid linked to heart disease, are also higher in smokers.’
  • ‘In some individuals, plasma levels of the amino acid homocysteine are abnormally high.’
  • ‘Studies suggest that raised levels of the amino acid homocysteine are associated with reduced brain performance.’