The effect of vitamin D and homocysteine on DNA regulation of beta-amyloid.

Abstract

At the cellular level the human body is a bioactive reactor, many symbiotic biochemical reactions are taking place at the DNA level to maintain the integrity of the neurons. 373 patients presented for memory evaluation in the last 5 years. A Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was given as a standard cognitive test for dementia evaluation and part of memory blood panel serum vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine were done. Results of the serum blood tests were correlated with MoCA scores. MoCA scoring: Normal (30-26), Mild (25-21), Moderate (20-16), Severe (<16). Regression statistical analysis showed that patients' homocysteine levels had linear relation to their MoCA scores (t = -3.81, df = 233, p < 0.001). For every 1 uM increase in homocysteine levels, there was a 0.21997 decrease in MoCA scores, on average. Vitamin D levels had linear relation with their Homocysteine levels (t = -2.40, df = 302, p = 0.017). For every 1 ng/mL increase in vitamin D, there was a 0.04277 uM decrease in homocysteine, on average. Similar relation was between homocysteine levels and vitamin B12 levels (t = -3.39, df = 292, p < 0.001). For every 1 pg/mL increase in vitamin B12 there was a 0.004043 uM decrease in homocysteine levels, on average. Lastly, folate levels showed linear relation with homocysteine levels (t = -3.70, df = 250, p < 0.001). For every 1 ng/mL increase in folate, there was a 0.25375 uM decrease in homocysteine levels. At neuronal level, this complex biochemical activity is regulated by active DNA through demethylation and inactive DNA by methylation, with many cofactors playing a major role. In the methionine cycle, homocysteine is methylated to form methionine, a precursor to SAMe, which will ultimately allow for the transfer of a methyl group to a DNA regulation of Beta-Amyloid (Fuso, et. al 2006) is indirect evidence of linear correlation of this clinical lab value with MoCA Scores. This clinical study provides indirect evidence of the role of homocysteine and vitamin D in DNA regulation, activation, and the neuroprotective effect of homocysteine metabolism.