Cysteine is a better predictor of coronary artery disease than conventional homocysteine in high-risk subjects under preventive medication

MDLinx ^ | April 21, 2020

[nickcarraway]

Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases — Lima A, Ferin R, Fontes A, et al.

This study was intended to assess whether cysteine is a better prognosticator of coronary artery disease than conventional homocysteine in high-risk subjects under preventive medication. Researchers enrolled a total of 174 individuals with symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD) (age 56±9y; 68% men) who submitted to coronary angiography were split into 2 groups: one formed by CAD patients (≥50% stenosis in at least one major coronary vessel) and the other by non-CAD patients (<50% stenosis). Via RP-HPLC/FLD, Plasma and erythrocyte aminothiol profiles were assessed. Compared with non-CAD group, CAD patients significantly showed both higher concentrations of plasma Cys and hypercysteinemia prevalence. Compared with hyperhomocysteinemia, hypercysteinemia revealed to be a better predictor of CAD. Furthermore, plasma Cys exhibited to be a feasible biomarker for CAD both in primary and secondary preventions, seeming to resist better than Hcy to oral medication therapy.

[nickcarraway]

We've known for 20+ years is a better idicator of hear health than cholesterol (Especially the top level number), but almost every doctor still used cholesterol.

Now we may have an even better test. Will it matter?

[Balding_Eagle]

BTTT MDLinx

[ConservativeMind]

Interesting. It would seem taking NAC could be a problem.

[gnarledmaw]

It will, absolutely, at least it will once there is a patented cysteine reducing drug with suitable kickbacks.

[nickcarraway]

I know one doctor who orders his patients to get a homocysteine test. How many do you think are out there?

Right now doctors have their patients on damaging medication unnecessarily.