HealthJuly 16, 2026

homocysteine

/ˌhoʊmoʊˈsɪstiːin/

Definition

An amino acid in the blood that, when present in high concentrations, is associated with various health issues, including cognitive decline and cardiovascular risks.

Etymology

The term is a chemical compound of 'homo-' (indicating it is a homologue of cysteine) and 'cysteine' (derived from the Greek 'kystis' meaning 'bladder,' as it was first isolated from urinary calculi). It is a standard scientific coinage describing its structural relationship to the amino acid cysteine.

In the news

In the article, the author highlights the importance of folate in regulating homocysteine levels, which is a critical mechanism for maintaining healthy brain tissues and normal cognitive function.

Holistic health drives cognitive supplement demand and ingredient innovations

Read the full article ↗

Nutrition Insight

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