Definition

A type of amino acid that the body uses for various functions, including making proteins. High levels of this substance in the blood may increase the risk of heart disease by harming blood vessels and promoting blood clotting.

Example

Doctors often check homocysteine levels to assess a patient's risk of heart disease.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about homocysteine and its effect on heart health?

Yeah, I read that high levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

Exactly! It's interesting how something like homocysteine can impact your body so much.

For sure, it makes me want to pay more attention to my diet.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Homocysteine is formed from "homo-" (meaning same) and "cysteine" (from Greek "kystis", meaning bladder, and the amino acid "cysteine" itself). The term refers to a compound that is chemically similar to cysteine, hence the prefix 'homo-' indicating similarity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'homo-' meaning 'same' and 'cysteine' as an amino acid — this helps you remember that homocysteine is a compound similar to cysteine.

Visually Confused Words