Final answer:
Vitamin B-6, folate, and vitamin B-12 play a critical role in cardiovascular health due to their involvement in the metabolism of homocysteine. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to the buildup of homocysteine, contributing to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. These vitamins are essential in various biochemical reactions, including energy metabolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Vitamin B-6, folate, and vitamin B-12 are involved in cardiovascular risk due to their role in metabolism in the homocysteine (Hcy), cysteine (Cys), and methionine (Met) pathways. In humans deficiencies or inadequate supply of these vitamins which serve as coenzymes or cofactors can lead to the accumulation of Hcy and its metabolites. This accumulation is implicated in cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases through pro-atherogenic changes in gene expression and the modification of proteins.
The B vitamins including Vitamin B-6, folate and Vitamin B-12 are critical for various biochemical reactions in the body, such as mineral and bone metabolism, as well as cell and tissue growth. These vitamins act as cofactors for enzymes involved in energy metabolism. Deficiencies in these vitamins can result in conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, demyelination and neurological lesions. Additionally their role in the metabolism of homocysteine is particularly crucial in maintaining cardiovascular health.