The relationship between serum uric acid and homocysteine is influenced by kidney function

Abstract

Background and aim: Prior research has established a relationship between homocysteine (Hcy) and serum uric acid (SUA) levels; however, the precise mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. The objective of this research was to explore the correlation between SUA and Hcy and to evaluate the possible role of kidney function as a mediator in the connection between SUA and Hcy.

Methods and results: Consecutive enrollment of 16870 participants aged 20-60 years was conducted at the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University. Self-reported health questionnaires were used to gather information on health behaviors and medical backgrounds. Trained personnel performed laboratory examinations using standard methods. A mediation analysis was performed to explore the possible effect of renal function on the association between SUA and Hcy levels. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was used to assess kidney function. Logistic regression analysis showed that SUA levels were positively correlated with Hcy levels and hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) risk (p < 0.01). Subgroup analysis showed the robustness of the results. Significant mediation effects of eGFR were found in the relationship between SUA and Hcy, as demonstrated by the subsequent mediation analysis. In the overall study group, the percentage of eGFR mediated in the association between SUA and Hcy was 63.36 %, with 41.59 % and 57.59 % in women and men, respectively.

Conclusions: SUA was positively correlated with Hcy and HHcy risks, and the effects of SUA on Hcy may be mediated by renal function indicators (eGFR).

Keywords: Homocysteine (Hcy); Mediation analysis; Renal function indicators (eGFR); Serum uric acid (SUA).