![link between high levels of niacin a common b vitamin and heart disease study suggests](https://utterbuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/link-between-high-levels-of-niacin-a-common-b-vitamin-and-heart-disease-study-suggests-640x360.jpg)
Researchers have identified a new pathway that contributes to cardiovascular disease associated with high levels of niacin, a common B vitamin previously recommended to lower cholesterol. The team discovered a link between 4PY, a breakdown product from excess niacin, and heart disease. Higher circulating levels of 4PY were strongly associated with development of heart attack, stroke and other adverse cardiac events in large-scale clinical studies. The researchers also showed in preclinical studies that 4PY directly triggers vascular inflammation which damages blood vessels and can lead to atherosclerosis over time.