Rev Invest Clin
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Homocysteine is a thiol-containing amino acid derived from methionine metabolism that can be degraded through two enzymatic pathways: remethylation and trans-sulfuration. In remethylation, homocysteine regenerates methionine. In the trans-sulfuration pathway, homocysteine forms cysteine. ⋯ The present review describes the homocysteine metabolism, the epidemiological evidence showing the association between homocysteine and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. The mechanisms by which homocysteine produces vascular damage are indicated. Finally, some recommendations are given for the nutritional therapy of patients with hyperhomocysteinemia.