Critical levels of brain atrophy associated with homocysteine and cognitive decline

Neurobiol Aging. 2014 Sep:35 Suppl 2:S35-9. doi: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.03.040. Epub 2014 May 15.

Abstract

Few B-vitamin trials to lower homocysteine (Hcy) have reported evidence of beneficial effects on cognition in older adults with cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. This article reviews the role of Hcy in cognitive decline. It also considers some reasons why meta-analyses have failed to find effects of B-vitamin treatment. Findings from the successful VITACOG trial are examined from a new perspective of critical levels of Hcy and brain atrophy that may impact on the efficacy of B-vitamin treatment. It appears that there is a critical level of brain shrinkage, possibly mediated by elevated Hcy, which when reached, results in cognitive decline, especially in episodic memory performance. Supplements, food sources, and effects of folic acid fortification are discussed in relation to B12 deficiency.

Keywords: Alzheimer's disease; Atrophy; B vitamins; B12 deficiency; Cognition; Folic acid; Homocysteine; Mild cognitive impairment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrophy
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Cognition Disorders / drug therapy
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • Cognition Disorders / metabolism
  • Cognition Disorders / pathology*
  • Folic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Homocysteine / blood*
  • Humans
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / complications
  • Vitamin B Complex / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Homocysteine
  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Folic Acid