Increased homocyst(e)ine associated with smoking, chronic inflammation, and aging may reflect acute-phase induction of pyridoxal phosphatase activity

Smokers, patients with chronic inflammatory disorders, and the elderly, are characterized by increased production of IL-6 as well as increased plasma levels of homocyst(e)ine. Analysis of cirrhotic livers suggests that IL-6 m ay stimulate the activity of pyridoxal phosphatase in hepatocytes, thereby diminishing pyridoxal phosphate levels, compromising cystathionine beta -sy nthase activity, and raising plasma homocyst(e)ine. Adequate supplemental i ntakes of pyridoxine may be corrective in this regard. (C) 2000 Harcourt Pu blishers Ltd.