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.’
‘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.’
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