Why homocysteine is a risk factor of neurodegenerative diseases mini review

The receptor-mediated effects of homocysteine and homocysteic acid on neurons and lymphocytes are described. Activation of glutamate receptors by these ligands was shown to induce an increase in intracellular calcium concentration and the level of active forms of oxygen in both types of cells. This increase may serve as a signal for activation of apoptosis. Metabotropic receptors of group III stimulated the excitotoxic effect of homocysteine and homocysteic acid, while those of group I and II prevented it. It is proposed that selective agonists/antagonists of these metabotropic receptors can be used for correction of neuronal and immune cell metabolism during hyperhomocysteinemia.