Pharmacogenetics drug metabolism and transport

Various defense mechanisms have evolved to protect humans and other animals from the thousands of chemicals present in food, drinks, and the environment. Of particular interest are cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, which catalyze the final step in the incorporation of oxygen into organic molecules. They frequently convert xenobi-otics, including human-made chemicals and drugs, into less toxic products but can also transform nontoxic chemicals into toxic or carcinogenic-reactive species. 

Cytochrome P450 SNP Could Be the Key to Variations in Drug Response 

The investigators used DNA in Uver samples from diverse individuals to identify the most common single nucleotide polymorphisms in the CYP3A family of genes. They then looked for associations between the SNPs and differences in drug metabolism and clearance of the anesthetic midazolam by these individuals. They 

Genotypic Differences in CYP2C19 May Modulate Disposition of Drug Therapy for H. pylori Infection and Cure Rates 

The study population consisted of CYP2C19-genotyped patients infected with H. pylori who had completed initial treatment with omeprazole 20 mg or lansoprazole 30 mg twice daily, and clarithromycin 200 mg and amoxicillin 500 mg three times a day for 1 week. Patients in whom the infection was not eradicated after initial treatment were retreated with lansoprazole 30 mg and amoxicillin 500 mg four times a day for 2 weeks. 

---