Increased levels of C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐6 in hyperhomocysteinemic subjects

Abstract

Objective. Elevated plasma homocysteine concentration is considered to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the mechanisms by which hyperhomocysteinemia are related to vascular disease are unclear. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, has been reported to be an independent predictor of future myocardial infarction among clinically healthy individuals. Interleukin (IL)‐6 is a regulator of CRP and has a key role in initiation of inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether individuals with increased plasma homocysteine concentrations have altered levels of serum CRP and IL‐6. Material and methods. Serum concentrations of CRP and IL‐6 were measured in 39 individuals with hyperhomocysteinemia and in 39 control subjects matched for gender, age and body mass index (BMI). In addition, the inflammatory effect of IL‐6 on peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured. Results. Compared to controls, hyperhomocysteinemic subjects have elevated serum levels of CRP and IL‐6 (p⩽0.001 and pConclusions. These data suggest that enhanced inflammation may be associated with homocysteine‐related cardiovascular disease, possibly involving IL‐6‐related mechanisms.