Effects of Age and Gender on The Concentrations of Plasma Homocysteine, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid in Angora Cats

Abstract

Homocysteine (Hcy) is an amino acid containing sulfur group in methionine metabolism regulating by vitamin B₁₂ and folic acid. In recent years, it has been used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of several diseases. Therefore, in this study, it was aimed to investigate normal values of plasma Hcy, vitamin B₁₂ and folic acid in Angora cats considering the age and gender. Thirty-two blood samples were collected from healthy Angora cats. They were classified as young (5.8±2.6 months, n=16) and adults (76.6±52.6 months, n=16) according to age, and as male (n=16) and female (n=16) according to gender as well. The findings of this study showed that plasma Hcy, vitamin B₁₂ and folate concentrations of all cats were totally 29.94±3.20 nmol/mL, 1179.25±156.96 pg/mL, 28.10±1.50 ng/mL, respectively. These parameters were not differed statistically according to gender (P>0.05). On the other hand, it was observed that plasma concentrations of Hcy, and vitamin B₁₂ were significantly (P<0.05) increased by ageing, except folate levels. In conclusion, this is the first study represents the normal values of plasma Hcy, vitamin B₁₂ and folic acid in Angora cats considering age and gender It is supposed that findings of this study may offer scientific data for researchers, veterinarians, or further comprehensive studies.