An amino acid byproduct linked to cardiovascular and cognitive risk in research.
What is it
Homocysteine is an amino acid produced during methionine metabolism. Levels depend on B-vitamin status (folate, B12, B6) and genetics (MTHFR variants).
Why it's measured
Elevated homocysteine has been associated with cardiovascular risk and cognitive decline in published research.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
< 10 μmol/L
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
Has been associated with elevated cardiovascular and cognitive risk in research literature, and often warrants evaluation of B-vitamin status.
Lower
Is generally considered favorable.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Measured in advanced cardiovascular and cognitive risk assessment.
Related markers
Common questions
Homocysteine is an amino acid produced during methionine metabolism. Levels depend on B-vitamin status (folate, B12, B6) and genetics (MTHFR variants).
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. Homocysteine is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
Homocysteine is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.