Homocysteine and transmethylations in uremia

Homocysteine is regarded as a cardiovascular risk factor in both the genera l population and chronic renal failure patients. Among the mechanisms for h omocysteine toxicity, its interference with transmethylation reactions, thr ough its precursor/derivative S-adenosylhomocysteine, plays a multifarious role. In uremia, inhibition of S-adenosylmethionine methyl transfer reactio ns has been reported by independent investigators, using multiple approache s. This has several possible consequences, which can ultimately affect the patient's relative state of health.