Polymorphism of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 gene in Japanese epileptic patients: genetic analysis of the CYP2C9 locus

Assessment of clinically actionable pharmacogenetic markers to stratify anti-seizure medications

Epilepsy treatment is challenging due to heterogeneous syndromes, different seizure types and higher inter-individual variability. Identification of genetic variants predicting drug efficacy, tolerability and risk of adverse-effects for anti-seizure medications (ASMs) is essential. Here, we assessed the clinical actionability of known genetic variants, based on their functional and clinical significance and estimated their diagnostic predictability. We performed a systematic PubMed search to identify articles with pharmacogenomic (PGx) information for forty known ASMs. Functional annotation of the identified genetic variants was performed using different in silico tools, and their clinical significance was assessed using the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines for variant pathogenicity, level of evidence (LOE) from PharmGKB and the United States-Food and drug administration (US- FDA) drug labelling with PGx information. Diagnostic predictability of the replicated genetic variants was evaluated by calculating their accuracy. A total of 270 articles were retrieved with PGx evidence associated with 19 ASMs including 178 variants across 93 genes, classifying 26 genetic variants as benign/ likely benign, fourteen as drug response markers and three as risk factors for drug response. Only seventeen of these were replicated, with accuracy (up to 95%) in predicting PGx outcomes specific to six ASMs. Eight out of seventeen variants have FDA-approved PGx drug labelling for clinical implementation. Therefore, the remaining nine variants promise for potential clinical actionability and can be improvised with additional experimental evidence for clinical utility.

Effects of genetic polymorphism of drug-metabolizing enzymes on the plasma concentrations of antiepileptic drugs in Chinese population

As a chronic brain disease, epilepsy affects ~50 million people worldwide. The traditional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are widely applied but showing various problems. Although the new AEDs have partially solved the problems of traditional AEDs, the current clinical application of traditional AEDs are not completely replaced by new drugs, particularly due to the large individual differences in drug plasma concentrations and narrow therapeutic windows among patients. Therefore, it is still clinically important to continue to treat patients using traditional AEDs with individualized therapeutic plans. To date, our understanding of the molecular and genetic mechanisms regulating plasma concentrations of AEDs has advanced rapidly, expanding the knowledge on the effects of genetic polymorphisms of genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes on the plasma concentrations of AEDs. It is increasingly imperative to summarize and conceptualize the clinical significance of recent studies on individualized therapeutic regimens. In this review, we extensively summarize the critical effects of genetic polymorphisms of genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes on the plasma concentrations of several commonly used AEDs as well as the clinical significance of testing genotypes related to drug metabolism on individualized drug dosage. Our review provides solid experimental evidence and clinical guidance for the therapeutic applications of these AEDs.

Individuals with CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 reduced metabolism haplotypes self-adjusted ibuprofen dose in the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to determine whether differences in CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 haplotype influence the dose of ibuprofen self-administered by individuals, and to examine the potential relationship between CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 reduced metabolism haplotypes and adverse events.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

We investigated relationships between genetic variations in CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 and ibuprofen use, dose, and side effects (reported by questionnaire) in 445 participants from the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative.

RESULTS

Carriers of reduced metabolism haplotypes for CYP2C8 (*2, *3, *4) and CYP2C9 (*2, *3) were significantly (P=0.0171) more likely than those lacking these variants to take less than the recommended dose of ibuprofen, after controlling for sex, age, race, and cohort. In contrast to ibuprofen dose, there were no differences in ibuprofen use frequency or reported side effects based on haplotype. However, there are often no early signs of acute kidney injury, the most serious side effect of elevated ibuprofen exposure.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest a subset of individuals with genetic variation in CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 recognize that they obtain adequate drug efficacy with lower ibuprofen doses, or take lower doses due to prior side effects. However, most (82.6%) individuals with reduced metabolism haplotypes nonetheless took recommended or higher doses, potentially putting them at increased risk for side effects.

Functional Characterization of Pharmcogenetic Variants of Human Cytochrome P450 2C9 in Korean Populations

Human cytochrome P450 2C9 is a highly polymorphic enzyme that is required for drug and xenobiotic metabolism. Here, we studied eleven P450 2C9 genetic variants—including three novel variants F69S, L310V, and Q324X—that were clinically identified in Korean patients. P450 2C9 variant enzymes were expressed in Escherichia coli and their bicistronic membrane fractions were prepared The CO-binding spectra were obtained for nine enzyme variants, indicating P450 holoenzymes, but not for the M02 (L90P) variant. The M11 (Q324X) variant could not be expressed due to an early nonsense mutation. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed to measure the catalytic activities of the P450 2C9 variants, using diclofenac as a substrate. Steady-state kinetic analysis revealed that the catalytic efficiency of all nine P450 2C9 variants was lower than that of the wild type P450 2C9 enzyme. The M05 (R150L) and M06 (P279T) variants showed high k_cat values; however, their K_m values were also high. As the M01 (F69S), M03 (R124Q), M04 (R125H), M08 (I359L), M09 (I359T), and M10 (A477T) variants exhibited higher K_m and lower k_cat values than that of the wild type enzyme, their catalytic efficiency decreased by approximately 50-fold compared to the wild type enzyme. Furthermore, the novel variant M07 (L310V) showed lower k_cat and K_m values than the wild type enzyme, which resulted in its decreased (80%) catalytic efficiency. The X-ray crystal structure of P450 2C9 revealed the presence of mutations in the residues surrounding the substrate-binding cavity. Functional characterization of these genetic variants can help understand the pharmacogenetic outcomes.

Effect of CYP2C9 Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics of Indomethacin During Pregnancy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 catalyzes the biotransformation of indomethacin to its inactive metabolite O-desmethylindomethacin (DMI). The aim of this work was to determine the effect of CYP2C9 polymorphisms on indomethacin metabolism in pregnant women.

METHODS

Plasma concentrations of indomethacin and DMI at steady state were analyzed with a validated LC-MS/MS method. DNA was isolated from subject blood and buccal smear samples. Subjects were grouped by genotype for comparisons of pharmacokinetic parameters.

RESULTS

For subjects with the *1/*2 genotype, the mean steady-state apparent oral clearance (CL/F_ss) of indomethacin was 13.5 ± 7.7 L/h (n = 4) and the mean metabolic ratio (AUC_DMI/AUC_indomethacin) was 0.291 ± 0.133. For subjects with the *1/*1 genotype, these values were 12.4 ± 2.7 L/h and 0.221 ± 0.078, respectively (n = 14). Of note, we identified one subject who was a carrier of both the *3 and *4 alleles, resulting in an amino acid change (I359P) which has not been reported previously. This subject had a metabolic ratio of 0.390 and a CL/F_ss of indomethacin (24.3 L/h) that was nearly double the wild-type clearance.

CONCLUSION

Although our results are limited by sample size and are not statistically significant, these data suggest that certain genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C9 may lead to an increased metabolic ratio and an increase in the clearance of indomethacin. More data are needed to assess the impact of CYP2C9 genotype on the effectiveness of indomethacin as a tocolytic agent.

Interpretation of the effect of CYP2C9, VKORC1 and CYP4F2 variants on warfarin dosing adjustment in Turkey

It was aimed to underline the importance and explain the meaning of genetic testing in warfarin dosing and investigate and evaluate the contributions of the CYP2C9, VKORC1, and CYP4F2 variants in a Turkish population. Two hundred patients were genotyped for CYP2C9 (rs1799853, rs1057910 and rs56165452), VKORC1 (rs9934438, rs8050894, rs9923231, rs7294 and rs2359612) and CYP4F2 (rs2108622), yet, only 127 patients were found suitable for further evaluation in terms of their personal response to warfarin due to long term usage and available INR and dose usage information. The DNA sequences were determined by the ABI PRISM 3100 Genetic Analyzer to 3130xl System (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, California). Warfarin dose application suggestions by warfaringdosing.org, FDA and MayoClinic were followed. Dose requirements in the Turkish population were found higher than the suggested doses by warfarindosing.org. The multivariate logistic regression analysis reveals the utilization of VCORC1 genetic evaluation is valuable in warfarin dosing (low and moderate vs. high) in this study (p < 0.001). The present study provides findings for clinicians to adapt the genetic data to the daily practice. We observed that the VKORC1 variant showed a more potent impact in warfarin dosing in this study.

CYP2C9 polymorphisms in epilepsy: influence on phenytoin treatment

Phenytoin (PHT) is an antiepileptic drug widely used in the treatment of focal epilepsy and status epilepticus, and effective in controlling focal seizures with and without tonic-clonic generalization and status epilepticus. The metabolization of PHT is carried out by two oxidative cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP2C19; 90% of this metabolization is done by CYP2C9 and the remaining 10% by CYP2C19. Genetic polymorphism of CYP2C9 may reduce the metabolism of PHT by 25-50% in patients with variants *2 and *3 compared to those with wild-type variant *1. The frequency distribution of CYP2C9 polymorphism alleles in patients with epilepsy around the world ranges from 4.5 to 13.6%, being less frequent in African-Americans and Asians. PHT has a narrow therapeutic range and a nonlinear pharmacokinetic profile; hence, its poor metabolization has significant clinical implications as it causes more frequent and more serious adverse effects requiring discontinuation of treatment, even if it had been effective. There is evidence that polymorphisms of CYP2C9 and the use of PHT are associated with an increase in the frequency of some side effects, such as cerebellar atrophy, gingival hypertrophy or acute cutaneous reactions. The presence of HLA-B*15:02 and CYP2C9 *2 or *3 in the same patient increases the risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis; hence, PHT should not be prescribed in these patients. In patients with CYP2C9 *1/*2 or *1/*3 alleles (intermediate metabolizers), the usual PHT maintenance dose (5-10 mg/kg/day) must be reduced by 25%, and in those with CYP2C9 *2/*2, *2/*3 or *3/*3 alleles (poor metabolizers), the dose must be reduced by 50%. It is controversial whether CYP2C9 genotyping should be done before starting PHT treatment. In this paper, we aim to review the influence of CYP2C9 polymorphism on the metabolization of PHT and the clinical implications of poor metabolization in the treatment of epilepsies.

Structural Basis of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Cytochrome P450 2C9

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are important contributors to interindividual differences in drug metabolism leading to adverse drug reactions. Despite their extensive characterization and importance in pharmacogenetics of clinical drugs, the structural basis of CYP polymorphisms has remained scant. Here we report the crystal structures of human CYP2C9 and its polymorphic variants, *3 (I359L) and *30 (A477T), with an antihypertensive drug losartan. The structures show distinct interaction and occupation of losartan in the active site, the access channel, and the peripheral binding site. The I359L substitution located far from the active site remarkably altered the residue side chains near the active site and the access channel, whereas the T477 substitution illustrated hydrogen-bonding interaction with the reoriented side chain of Q214. The results yield structural insights into the reduced catalytic activity of the CYP2C9 variants and have important implications for understanding genetic polymorphisms in CYP-mediated drug metabolism.

Systematic characterization and comparison of the CYP2C9 variability of the Orang Asli in Malaysia with 12 populations

We conducted a systematic characterization of CYP2C9 variants in 61 Orang Asli and 96 Singaporean Malays using the whole genome sequences data and compared the variants with the other 11 HapMap populations. The frequency of rs1057910 (CYP2C9*3) is the highest in the Orang Asli compared to other populations. Three alleles with clinical implication were detected in the Orang Asli while 2 were found in the Singaporean Malays. Large numbers of the Orang Asli are predicted to have reduced metabolic capacity and therefore they would require a lower dose of drugs which are metabolized by CYP2C9. They are also at increased risks of adverse effects and therapeutic failures. A large number of CYP2C9 variants in the Orang Asli were not in the Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium which could be due to small sample size or mutations that disrupt the equilibrium of allele frequencies. In conclusion, different polymorphism patterns, allele frequencies, genotype frequencies and LD blocks are observed between the Orang Asli, the Singaporean Malays and the other populations. The study provided new information on the genetic polymorphism of CYP2C9 which is important for the implementation of precision medicine for the Orang Asli.

Analysis of CYP2C9 polymorphisms (*2 and *3) in warfarin therapy patients in Pakistan. Association of CYP2C9 polymorphisms (*2 and*3) with warfarin dose, age, PT and INR

Warfarin is a widely used anticoagulant characterized by having a narrow therapeutic index and exhibiting a wide range of inter-individual and inter-ethnic variation. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in hepatic VKORC1 and CYP2C9 genes causes decreased and increased metabolism of warfarin respectively. The objective of this study was to evaluate the allele frequency of CYP2C9 polymorphic variants *2 and *3 and the association of these allelic variants with PT/INR and daily/weekly dose of warfarin. Seventy-four patients with heart valve replacement were selected. Patients taking low warfarin dose (4.90-17.50 mg weekly) for at least last 3 months and had a stable INR in the range of 2-3 were included in this study. CYP2C9 polymorphism was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Among 74 patients, 9 (12.1 %) showed to have *2 allele, whereas 11 (14.1 %) had *3 allele. Genotype frequencies of wild and variant alleles were, 54.1, 17.6, 21.6 and 6.8 % for *1/*1, *1/*2, *1/*3 and *2/*3 respectively. None of the patient was homozygous for *2 and *3. Statistical analysis showed that low warfarin dose (weekly) is significantly associated with *1/*2 and *1/*3 genotypes (p value ≥ 0.001), whereas PT/INR showed no significant association with the any genotypes of CYP2C9. Our study suggest that polymorphic variants of CYP2C9 (*2 and *3) might influence warfarin dose requirements and associated with the low dose of warfarin in patients.

The effect of polymorphic metabolism enzymes on serum phenytoin level

Phenytoin has a widespread use in epilepsy treatment and is mainly metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP). We have investigated CYP2C9*2, CYP2C9*3, CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 allelic variants in a Turkish population of patients on phenytoin therapy. Patients on phenytoin therapy (n = 102) for the prevention of epileptic seizures were included. Polymorphic alleles were analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Serum concentrations of phenytoin were measured by fluorescence polarization immune assay method. The most frequent genotype was detected for CYP2C9 wild-type alleles (78.43 %), whereas CYP2C19*2/*2 (5.88 %) was the least frequent genotype group. According to the classification made with both enzyme polymorphisms, CYP2C9*1/*1-CYP2C19*1/*1 (G1: 41.17 %) genotype group was the most frequent whereas CYP2C9*1/*2-CYP2C19*1/*3 (G7: 0.98 %) was the least frequent one. The highest mean phenytoin level (27.95 ± 1.85 µg/ml) was detected in the G8 genotype group (CYP2C9*1/*3-CYP2C19*2/*3) and the G1 genotype group showed the lowest mean phenytoin level (7.43 ± 0.73 µg/ml). The mean serum concentration of phenytoin of the polymorphic patients with epilepsy was higher than that for the wild-type alleles both in the monotherapy and polytherapy patients. These results show the importance of the genetic polymorphism analysis of the main metabolizing enzyme groups of phenytoin for the dose adjustment.

Effect of CYP2C19 polymorphism on the pharmacokinetics of rosuvastatin in healthy Taiwanese subjects

CYP2C19 contributes to N-desmethyl rosuvastatin formation in "in vitro" models. Approximately 80% of Taiwanese are CYP2C19 extensive metabolizers (EMs, CYP2C19*1/*1, *1/*2, or *1/*3). We studied the potential effect of CYP2C19 genotypes on rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics in healthy Taiwanese subjects following single and multiple daily oral doses of rosuvastatin calcium (20 mg). Geometric mean ratios for poor metabolizers (PMs): EMs for rosuvastatin were 0.974 and 0.872 for area under the curve and maximum plasma concentration on day 1 (1.01 and 0.965 on day 17) and for N-desmethyl rosuvastatin, 1.21 and 1.07 on day 1 (1.14 and 1.09 on day 17), respectively. Changes of lipid profiles from baseline to day 18 for PMs and EMs were -52.4% and -53.3% (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and -34.2% and -30.0% (total cholesterol), respectively. Rosuvastatin was generally well-tolerated by both PMs and EMs. These results suggest that CYP2C19 polymorphism does not affect rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics in healthy Taiwanese in a clinically meaningful way.

In vitro functional characterization of 37 CYP2C9 allelic isoforms found in Chinese Han population

AIM

Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) is a polymorphic enzyme that is responsible for the metabolism of approximately 15% of clinically important drugs. The aim of this study was to assess the catalytic characteristics of 37 CYP2C9 allelic isoforms found in Chinese Han population on the metabolism of tolbutamide in vitro.

METHODS

The wild-type and 36 CYP2C9 variants were expressed in sf21 insect cells using a baculovirus-mediated expression system. Then the insect microsomes were prepared for assessing the metabolic characteristics of each variant toward the CYP2C9-specific drug substrate tolbutamide.

RESULTS

Of 36 allelic variants tested, the intrinsic clearance values of 2 allelic isoforms (CYP2C9.36 and CYP2C9.51) were much higher than the wild-type CYP2C9.1 protein, 3 allelic isoforms (CYP2C9.11, CYP2C9.56 and N418T) exhibited similar intrinsic clearance values as the wild-type enzyme, whereas the other 31 variants showed significantly reduced intrinsic clearance values, ranging from 0.08% to 66.88%, for tolbutamide.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides the most comprehensive data concerning the enzymatic activity of the CYP2C9 variants that are present in the Chinese Han population, and our data suggest that most of the carriers of these alleles might be paid more attention when using CYP2C9 mediated drugs clinically.

Losartan hydroxylation phenotype in an Ecuadorian population: influence of CYP2C9 genetic polymorphism, habits and gender

AIM

To describe for the first time CYP2C9 hydroxylation phenotype with CYP2C9 genotypes in a Hispanic (Ecuadorian) population using losartan; and the relevance of gender, tobacco, ethanol and caffeine consumption on the enzyme hydroxylation capacity.

METHODS

Ecuadorian healthy volunteers (n = 194) received a single oral dose of 25 mg losartan. Losartan metabolic ratio was defined as losartan:E3174 concentration. CYP2C9 alleles *2, *3, *4, *5 and *6 were analyzed.

RESULTS

No phenotypically poor metabolizers were found. The metabolic ratio (mean ± standard deviation) was higher (p < 0.05) in CYP2C9*1/*3 carriers (12.4 ± 13.8; n = 6) versus CYP2C9*1/*1 (4.9 ± 7.0; n = 167), as well as in females versus males (6.72 ± 9.72 and 3.76 ± 4.48, respectively; p < 0.05). Only the following genotypes, CYP2C9*1/*1, CYP2C9*1/*2 and CYP2C9*1/*3, were found with a frequency of 86.1%, 10.8% and 3.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Despite the mean metabolic ratio being higher in this population than in others previously studied across genotypes, no poor metabolizers, either phenotypically or genotypically, were found.

Impact of genetic polymorphisms in CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 on the pharmacokinetics of clinically used drugs

Human cytochrome P450 (CYP) is a superfamily of hemoproteins which oxidize a number of endogenous compounds and xenobiotics. The human CYP2C subfamily consists of four members: CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C18 and CYP2C19. CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 are important drug-metabolizing enzymes and together metabolize approximately 20% of therapeutically used drugs. Forty-two allelic variants for CYP2C9 and 34 for CYP2C19 have been reported. The frequencies of these variants show marked inter-ethnic variation. The functional consequences of genetic polymorphisms have been examined, and many studies have shown the clinical importance of these polymorphisms. Current evidence suggests that taking the genetically determined metabolic capacity of CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 into account has the potential to improve individual risk/benefit relationships. However, more prospective studies with clinical endpoints are needed before the paradigm of "personalized medicine" based on the variants can be established. This review summarizes the currently available important information on this topic.

Effect of genetic variants, especially CYP2C9 and VKORC1, on the pharmacology of warfarin

The genes encoding the cytochrome P450 2C9 enzyme (CYP2C9) and vitamin K-epoxide reductase complex unit 1 (VKORC1) are major determinants of anticoagulant response to warfarin. Together with patient demographics and clinical information, they account for approximately one-half of the warfarin dose variance in individuals of European descent. Recent prospective and randomized controlled trial data support pharmacogenetic guidance with their use in warfarin dose initiation and titration. Benefits from pharmacogenetics-guided warfarin dosing have been reported to extend beyond the period of initial dosing, with supportive data indicating benefits to at least 3 months. The genetic effects of VKORC1 and CYP2C9 in African and Asian populations are concordant with those in individuals of European ancestry; however, frequency distribution of allelic variants can vary considerably between major populations. Future randomized controlled trials in multiethnic settings using population-specific dosing algorithms will allow us to further ascertain the generalizability and cost-effectiveness of pharmacogenetics-guided warfarin therapy. Additional genome-wide association studies may help us to improve and refine dosing algorithms and potentially identify novel biological pathways.

Interethnic and Intraethnic Variability of CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 Polymorphisms in Healthy Individuals

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily members CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 are polymorphically expressed enzymes that are involved in the metabolic inactivation of several drugs, including, among others, antiepileptics, NSAIDs, oral hypoglycemics, and anticoagulants. Many of these drugs have a narrow therapeutic index, and growing evidence indicates a prominent role of CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 polymorphisms in the therapeutic efficacy and in the development of adverse effects among patients treated with drugs that are CYP2C8 or CYP2C9 substrates. In this review, we summarize present knowledge on human variability in the frequency of variant CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 alleles. Besides an expected interethnic variability in allele frequencies, a large intraethnic variability exists. Among Asian subjects, for example, statistically significant differences (p < 0.0001) in CYP2C9*3 allele frequencies between Chinese and Japanese individuals have been reported. In addition, individuals from East Asia present different allele frequencies for CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 compared with South Asian subjects (p < 0.0001). Among Caucasian Europeans, statistically significant differences for the frequency of CYP2C8*3, CYP2C9*2, and CYP2C9*3 exist (p < 0.0001). This indicates that Asian individuals or Caucasian European individuals cannot be considered as homogeneous groups regarding CYP2C8 or CYP2C9 allele frequencies. Caucasian American subjects also show a large variability in allele frequencies, which is likely to be related to ethnic ancestry. A higher frequency of variant CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 alleles is expected among Caucasian Americans with South European ancestry than in individuals with North European ancestry. The findings summarized in this review suggest that among individuals with Asian or European ancestry, intraethnic differences in the risk of developing adverse effects with drugs that are CYP2C8 or CYP2C9 substrates are to be expected. In addition, the observed intraethnic variability reinforces the need for proper selection of control subjects and points against the use of surrogate control groups for studies involving association of CYP2C8 or CYP2C9 alleles with adverse drug reactions or spontaneous diseases.

Polymorphic metabolism by functional alterations of human cytochrome P450 enzymes

The study of cytochrome P450 pharmacogenomics is of particular interest because of its promise in the development of rational means to optimize drug therapy with respect to patient's genotype to ensure maximum efficacy with minimal adverse effects. Drug metabolizing P450 enzymes are polymorphic and are the main phase I enzymes responsible for the metabolism of clinical drugs. Therefore, polymorphisms in the P450s have the most impact on the fate of clinical drugs in phase I metabolism since almost 80% of drugs in use today are metabolized by these enzymes. Predictive genotyping for P450 enzymes for a more effective therapy will be routine for specific drugs in the future. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of polymorphic metabolism by functional alterations in nonsynonymous SNPs of P450 1A2, 2A6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4 enzymes.

Combined CYP2C9, VKORC1 and CYP4F2 frequencies among racial and ethnic groups

AIMS

CYP4F2*3 (p.V433M) has been associated with higher warfarin dose requirements; however, its frequency, like other CYP2C9 and VKORC1 variants, has not been systematically assessed in major racial/ethnic populations. Thus, we determined the individual and combined frequencies of important CYP2C9, VKORC1 and CYP4F2 variants in several racial/ethnic groups.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Healthy African-American, Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic and Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) blood donors were genotyped for CYP2C9 (*2, *3, *4, *5, *6, *8, *11 and *13), VKORC1 (g.-1639G>A) and CYP4F2 (*3 [p.V433M] and rs2189784).

RESULTS

The combined frequencies of variant CYP2C9 alleles were 0.133, 0.078, 0.212, 0.178 and 0.212 among African-American, Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic and AJ individuals, respectively. CYP4F2*3 frequencies were prevalent (0.233-0.342) among Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic and AJ individuals, while significantly less frequent among African-Americans (0.117; p < 0.0001). In addition, CYP4F2*3 was in linkage disequilibrium with rs2189784, an allele recently associated with time-to-therapeutic international normalized ratio, among all studied populations. Importantly, 87-95% of Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic and AJ individuals had a variant CYP2C9, VKORC1 and/or CYP4F2*3 allele, compared with only 53% of African-Americans (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other racial/ethnic populations studied, only approximately one in 80 African-Americans were CYP4F2*3 homozygous, indicating that this population would benefit less from dosing algorithms that include this variant. In addition, the unique allele frequency profiles identified among the different populations partly explain why genotype-guided warfarin dosing algorithms perform less well for African-Americans and suggest that other unidentified genetic and/or nongenetic factors that influence warfarin dosage may exist in this population.

Pharmacogenetics of cytochrome P450 (CYP) in the elderly

The genetics of cytochrome P450 (CYP) is a very active area of multidisciplinary research, overlapping the interest of medicine, biology and pharmacology, being the CYP enzyme system responsible for the metabolism of more than 80% of the commercially available drugs. Variations in CYP encoding genes are responsible for inter-individual differences in CYP production or function, with severe clinical consequences as therapeutic failures (TFs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs), being ADRs worldwide primary causes of morbidity and mortality in elderly people. In fact, the prevalence of both TFs and ADRs strongly increased in the presence of multiple pharmacological treatments, a common status in subjects aging 65 years and over. The present article explored some basic concepts of human genetics that have important implications in the genetics of CYP. An attempted to transfer these basic concepts to the genetic data reported by the Home Page of The Human Cytochrome P450 (CYP) Allele Nomenclature Committee was also made, focusing on the current knowledge of CYP genetics. The status of what we know and what we need to know is the base for the clinical applications of pharmacogenetics, in which personalized drug treatments constituted the main aim, in particular in patients attending a geriatric ward.

Polymorphism of human cytochrome P450 enzymes and its clinical impact

Pharmacogenetics is the study of how interindividual variations in the DNA sequence of specific genes affect drug response. This article highlights current pharmacogenetic knowledge on important human drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450s (CYPs) to understand the large interindividual variability in drug clearance and responses in clinical practice. The human CYP superfamily contains 57 functional genes and 58 pseudogenes, with members of the 1, 2, and 3 families playing an important role in the metabolism of therapeutic drugs, other xenobiotics, and some endogenous compounds. Polymorphisms in the CYP family may have had the most impact on the fate of therapeutic drugs. CYP2D6, 2C19, and 2C9 polymorphisms account for the most frequent variations in phase I metabolism of drugs, since almost 80% of drugs in use today are metabolized by these enzymes. Approximately 5-14% of Caucasians, 0-5% Africans, and 0-1% of Asians lack CYP2D6 activity, and these individuals are known as poor metabolizers. CYP2C9 is another clinically significant enzyme that demonstrates multiple genetic variants with a potentially functional impact on the efficacy and adverse effects of drugs that are mainly eliminated by this enzyme. Studies into the CYP2C9 polymorphism have highlighted the importance of the CYP2C9*2 and *3 alleles. Extensive polymorphism also occurs in other CYP genes, such as CYP1A1, 2A6, 2A13, 2C8, 3A4, and 3A5. Since several of these CYPs (e.g., CYP1A1 and 1A2) play a role in the bioactivation of many procarcinogens, polymorphisms of these enzymes may contribute to the variable susceptibility to carcinogenesis. The distribution of the common variant alleles of CYP genes varies among different ethnic populations. Pharmacogenetics has the potential to achieve optimal quality use of medicines, and to improve the efficacy and safety of both prospective and currently available drugs. Further studies are warranted to explore the gene-dose, gene-concentration, and gene-response relationships for these important drug-metabolizing CYPs.

Polymorphisms of human cytochrome P450 2C9 and the functional relevance

Human cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) accounts for ∼20% of hepatic total CYP content and metabolizes ~15% clinical drugs such as phenytoin, S-warfarin, tolbutamide, losartan, and many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). CYP2C9 is highly polymorphic, with at least 33 variants of CYP2C9 (*1B through *34) being identified so far. CYP2C9*2 is frequent among Caucasians with ~1% of the population being homozygous carriers and 22% are heterozygous. The corresponding figures for the CYP2C9*3 allele are 0.4% and 15%, respectively. There are a number of clinical studies addressing the impact of CYP2C9 polymorphisms on the clearance and/or therapeutic response of therapeutic drugs. These studies have highlighted the importance of the CYP2C9*2 and *3 alleles as a determining factor for drug clearance and drug response. The CYP2C9 polymorphisms are relevant for the efficacy and adverse effects of numerous NSAIDs, sulfonylurea antidiabetic drugs and, most critically, oral anticoagulants belonging to the class of vitamin K epoxide reductase inhibitors. Warfarin has served as a practical example of how pharmacogenetics can be utilized to achieve maximum efficacy and minimum toxicity. For many of these drugs, a clear gene-dose and gene-effect relationship has been observed in patients. In this regard, CYP2C9 alleles can be considered as a useful biomarker in monitoring drug response and adverse effects. Genetic testing of CYP2C9 is expected to play a role in predicting drug clearance and conducting individualized pharmacotherapy. However, prospective clinical studies with large samples are warranted to establish gene-dose and gene-effect relationships for CYP2C9 and its substrate drugs.

PhRMA white paper on ADME pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomic (PGx) research on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties of drugs has begun to have impact for both drug development and utilization. To provide a cross-industry perspective on the utility of ADME PGx, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) conducted a survey of major pharmaceutical companies on their PGx practices and applications during 2003-2005. This white paper summarizes and interprets the results of the survey, highlights the contributions and applications of PGx by industrial scientists as reflected by original research publications, and discusses changes in drug labels that improve drug utilization by inclusion of PGx information. In addition, the paper includes a brief review on the clinically relevant genetic variants of drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters most relevant to the pharmaceutical industry.

CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 allele frequencies in the Ashkenazi Jewish population

OBJECTIVE

To determine and compare the cytochrome P450 (CYP)2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 allele and genotype frequencies in the Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) population with other populations.

METHODS

CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 genotypes were determined in 250 anonymous, unrelated, healthy AJ individuals from the greater New York (USA) metropolitan area. Genotyping was performed using the Tag-Ittrade mark Mutation Detection system and the recently redefined CYP2D6*41A allele was identified by a restriction fragment length polymorphism assay.

RESULTS

Among the 250 AJ individuals, the CYP2C9*1, *2, *3 and *5 allele frequencies were 0.772, 0.140, 0.086 and 0.002, respectively, and the genotypes were distributed into extensive- (60.8%), intermediate- (32.8%) and poor- (6.4%) metabolizer phenotypes. The CYP2C19*1, *2 and *4 allele frequencies were 0.830, 0.152 and 0.018, respectively, and the genotypes were distributed into extensive (69.2%), intermediate (27.6%) and poor (3.2%) metabolizers. The most common CYP2D6 alleles identified were *1, *2A, *4 and *41A, and their frequencies were 0.286 0.152 0.226 and 0.140, respectively. The CYP2D6 genotypes were distributed into ultrarapid- (8.8%), extensive- (70.0%), intermediate- (16.0%) and poor- (5.2%) metabolizer phenotypes.

CONCLUSION

Although the CYP2C9 allele and genotype frequencies in the AJ subjects were similar to those in other North American Caucasian populations, genotyping the CYP2C19*4 and CYP2D6*41A alleles in the AJ population resulted in the clinically relevant reclassification of the predicted metabolizer phenotypes. Inclusion of CYP2C19*4 reclassified individuals from either extensive- or intermediate- to the intermediate- or poor-metabolizer phenotypes, respectively. Inclusion of the redefined CYP2D6*41A allele increased the ultrarapid-, intermediate- and poor-metabolizer phenotype combined frequencies to 30%, indicating that approximately one in three AJ individuals may benefit from genotype-based drug selection and dosage. In addition, the ultrarapid CYP2D6 genotype frequency in the AJ population (8.8%) was approximately twofold higher than that in other North American Caucasians.

Pharmacogenetic testing of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 alleles for warfarin

American College of Medical Genetics statements and guidelines are designed primarily as an educational resource for medical geneticists and other health care professionals to help them provide quality medical genetic services. Adherence to these standards and guidelines does not necessarily ensure a successful medical outcome. These statements and guidelines should not be considered inclusive of all proper procedures and tests or exclusive of other procedures and tests that are reasonably directed to obtaining the same results. In determining the propriety of any specific procedure or test, the health care professional should apply his or her own professional judgment to the specific clinical circumstances presented by the individual patient or specimen. It may be prudent, however, to document in the patient's record the rationale for any significant deviation from these standards and guidelines. Warfarin (Coumadin) is a potent drug that when used judiciously and monitored closely, leads to substantial reductions in morbidity and mortality from thromboembolic events. However, even with careful monitoring, initiation of warfarin dosing is associated with highly variable responses between individuals and challenges achieving and maintaining levels within the narrow therapeutic range that can lead to adverse drug events. Variants of two genes, CYP2C9 and VKORC1, account for 30-50% of the variability in dosing of warfarin; thus, many believe that testing of these genes will aid in warfarin dosing recommendations. Evidence about this test is evolving rapidly, as is its translation into clinical practice. In an effort to address this situation, a multidisciplinary expert group was organized in November 2006 to evaluate the role of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 testing in altering warfarin-related therapeutic goals and reduction of adverse drug events. A recently completed Rapid-ACCE (Analytical, Clinical Validity, Clinical Utility, and Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications) Review, commissioned to inform this work group, was the foundation for this analysis. From this effort, specific recommendations for the appropriate use of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 testing were developed and are presented here. The group determined that the analytical validity of these tests has been met, and there is strong evidence to support association between these genetic variants and therapeutic dose of warfarin. However, there is insufficient evidence, at this time, to recommend for or against routine CYP2C9 and VKORC1 testing in warfarin-naive patients. Prospective clinical trials are needed that provide direct evidence of the benefits, disadvantages, and costs associated with this testing in the setting of initial warfarin dosing. Although the routine use of warfarin genotyping is not endorsed by this work group at this time, in certain situations, CYP2C9 and VKORC1 testing may be useful, and warranted, in determining the cause of unusual therapeutic responses to warfarin therapy.

Novel CYP2C9 promoter variants and assessment of their impact on gene expression

There are a considerable number of reports identifying and characterizing genetic variants within the CYP2C9 coding region. Much less is known about polymorphic promoter sequences that also might contribute to interindividual differences in CYP2C9 expression. To address this problem, approximately 10,000 base pairs of CYP2C9 upstream information were resequenced using 24 DNA samples from the Coriell Polymorphism Discovery Resource. Thirty-one single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified; nine SNPs were novel, whereas 22 were reported previously. Using both sequencing and multiplex single-base extension, individual SNP frequencies were determined in 193 DNA samples obtained from unrelated, self-reported Hispanic Americans of Mexican descent, and they were compared with similar data obtained from a non-Latino white cohort. Significant interethnic differences were observed in several SNP frequencies, some of which seemed unique to the Hispanic population. Analysis using PHASE 2.1 inferred nine common (>1%) variant haplotypes, two of which included the g.3608C>T (R144C) CYP2C9(*)2 and two the g.42614A>C (I359L) CYP2C9(*)3 SNPs. Haplotype variants were introduced into a CYP2C9/luciferase reporter plasmid using site-directed mutagenesis, and the impact of the variants on promoter activity assessed by transient expression in HepG2 cells. Both constitutive and pregnane X receptor-mediated inducible activities were measured. Haplotypes 1B, 3A, and 3B each exhibited a 65% decrease in constitutive promoter activity relative to the reference haplotype. Haplotypes 1D and 3B exhibited a 50% decrease and a 40% increase in induced promoter activity, respectively. These data suggest that genetic variation within CYP2C9 regulatory sequences is likely to contribute to differences in CYP2C9 phenotype both within and among different populations.

'Protected DNA Probes' capable of strong hybridization without removal of base protecting groups

We propose a new strategy called the ‘Protected DNA Probes (PDP) method’ in which appropriately protected bases selectively bind to the complementary bases without the removal of their base protecting groups. Previously, we reported that 4-N-acetylcytosine oligonucleotides (ac⁴C) exhibited a higher hybridization affinity for ssDNA than the unmodified oligonucleotides. For the PDP strategy, we created a modified adenine base and synthesized an N-acylated deoxyadenosine mimic having 6-N-acetyl-8-aza-7-deazaadenine (ac⁶az⁸c⁷A). It was found that PDP containing ac⁴C and ac⁶az⁸c⁷A exhibited higher affinity for the complementary ssDNA than the corresponding unmodified DNA probes and showed similar base recognition ability. Moreover, it should be noted that this PDP strategy could guarantee highly efficient synthesis of DNA probes on controlled pore glass (CPG) with high purity and thereby could eliminate the time-consuming procedures for isolating DNA probes. This strategy could also avoid undesired base-mediated elimination of DNA probes from CPG under basic conditions such as concentrated ammonia solution prescribed for removal of base protecting groups in the previous standard approach. Here, several successful applications of this strategy to single nucleotide polymorphism detection are also described in detail using PDPs immobilized on glass plates and those prepared on CPG plates, suggesting its potential usefulness.

Variant CYP2C9 Alleles and Warfarin Concentrations in Patients Receiving Low-Dose Versus Average-Dose Warfarin Therapy

This study compared the frequency of variant cytochrome P450 2C9 ( CYP2C9) alleles and warfarin S/R concentration ratio in patients who required low-dose (<2.5 mg/day) and average-dose (5 ± 0.5 mg/day) warfarin. Patients who achieved a therapeutic international normalized ratio were recruited from the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center anticoagulation clinic. CYP2C9*2 and *3 alleles were determined by validated Taqman allelic discrimination assays. Warfarin S and R concentrations were determined by chiral capillary electrochromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. At least 1 variant allele was found in 66.7% and 22.2% of patients in the low-dose and average-dose groups, respectively ( P = .001, χ2). The warfarin S/R concentration ratio was 0.665 (range, 0.162-3.58) and 0.452 (range, 0.159-2.36) for patients receiving low-dose and average-dose therapy, respectively ( P = .097). A warfarin requirement of <2.5 mg/day and an elevated warfarin S/R concentration ratio were each associated with a higher frequency of variant CYP2C9 alleles.

Factors affecting the interindividual variability of warfarin dose requirement in adult Korean patients

INTRODUCTION

Warfarin, a commonly prescribed anticoagulant, exhibits large interindividual and interethnic differences in the dose required for its anticoagulation effect. Asian patients require a much lower maintenance dose compared with Caucasians; the explanation for these differences remains unknown.

METHODS

We analyzed five single nucleotide polymorphisms of the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit 1 gene (VKORC1) and the *3 variant of cytochrome P450 (CYP)2C9, as well as the plasma warfarin concentration, in 108 Korean patients with atrial fibrillation.

RESULTS

Genotypic frequencies of VKORC1 +1173CT and CYP2C9*1/*3 were 17.6 and 10.2%, respectively, in the study population; VKORC1 +1173CC and CYP2C9*3/*4 were detected in one patient each. Patients carrying at least one copy of the VKORC1 +1173C allele, or the H7 (group B) haplotype, required a significantly higher warfarin dose (n = 20; 5.5 +/- 1.7 mg/day) than those homozygous for the +1173T allele, or the H1 (group A) haplotype, (3.8 +/- 1.2 mg/day; p < 0.001). There were statistically significant differences in warfarin dose between the CYP2C9*1/*1 (4.3 +/- 1.6 mg/day; p < 0.001) and those with the other two genotypes including CYP2C9*1/*3 and CYP2C9*3/*4 (2.7 +/- 0.9 mg/day). The multiple regression analysis revealed that the VKORC1 genotype (r2 = 0.197; p < 0.001), the age when warfarin started (r2 = 0.09; p < 0.001), body surface area (r2 = 0.041; p = 0.004) and CYP2C9 genotype (r2 = 0.029; p = 0.014) were factors associated with the daily dose of warfarin required.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we found that the VKORC1 polymorphism had a dominant genetic influence on interindividual variability for warfarin dose in Korean patients. It explained approximately 32% of the overall variability in warfarin dose requirements given all of the variables studied. Thus, analysis of the VKORC1 genotypes may be important to guide warfarin dose selection and allow personalized warfarin treatment.

An effective method for the in situ synthesis of DNA-CPG conjugates using chemical ligation technology as tools for SNP analysis

In this paper, we report a new method for the SNP analysis by using a chemical ligation (CL) technique on CPG plates with high coupling efficiency. This method showed markedly high match/mismatch discrimination ability. Particularly, replacement of thymidine with 2-thiothymidine in DNA probes used in the CL technology resulted in significant improvement of the base discrimination ability of the thymine base in this system.

A case report of a patient carrying CYP2C9*3/4 genotype with extremely low warfarin dose requirement

We report a case of intolerance to warfarin dosing due to impaired drug metabolism in a patient with CYP2C9*3/*4. A 73-yr-old woman with atrial fibrilation was taking warfarin. She attained a high prothrombin time international normalized ratio (INR) at the standard doses during the induction of anticoagulation and extremely low dose of warfarin (6.5 mg/week) was finally chosen to reach the target INR. Genotyping for CYP2C9 revealed that this patient had a genotype CYP2C9*3/*4. This is the first Korean compound heterozygote for CYP2C9*3 and *4. This case suggests the clinical usefulness of pharmacogenetic testing for individualized dosage adjustments of warfarin.

Influence of CYP2C9 Genotype on warfarin dose among African American and European Americans

BACKGROUND: Cytochrome P4502C9 (CYP2C9) plays a vital role in drug metabolism. There has been an increased effort to identify polymorphisms within the gene and determine their clinical consequences. However, most of these efforts have focused on populations of European descent. Herein we report the influence of CYP2C9 genotype on warfarin dose among European American and African American patients. We also identify two new mutations; one in the coding region and one in the non-coding region of the CYP2C9 gene. METHODS: Patients (≥20 years of age) are enrolled after obtaining medical, lifestyle and concomitant medication history. Changes in International Normalized Ratio (INR), warfarin dose, co-medications, diet, physical activity and the occurrence of complications are documented. CYP2C9 genotype was determined using PCR-RFLP and pyrosequencing. Differences in genotype frequencies and HWE assumptions were assessed using χ(2) statistics and exact tests. The genotype dose association was evaluated using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS: This report includes 490 patients (mean age 60.6 ± 15.6, 51.3% men). African American patients comprise 48.9% of the cohort with mean follow-up of 13.5 (±10.6) months. Both the CYP2C9 *2 and *3 allele were more frequent in European Americans (11.24%, 5.1%) compared to African Americans (1.1% and 1.8%). CYP2C9 *5 (0.9%), *6 (0.4%), and *11 (1.1%) variants were only observed in African Americans. The variant genotype is more frequent among European Americans compared to African Americans (29.8% vs. 9.73%, p<0.0001). Warfarin dose was significantly related to CYP2C9 genotype (p<0.0001) both in univariate and multivariate analyses. Multivariable race-specific analyses highlight the contribution of CYP2C9 genotype among European American but not among African American patients. CONCLUSION: The variant CYP2C9 genotype is more frequent among European Americans compared to African Americans. Among African Americans the variant genotype frequency is higher than previously reported. CYP2C9 genotype predicts warfarin dose in European Americans, but not in African Americans.

Frequency of CYP2C9 genotypes among Omani patients receiving warfarin and its correlation with warfarin dose

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to determine the frequency of CYP2C9 alleles in Omani patients receiving warfarin and to correlate genotyping data with warfarin dosage. The Omani population has Asian and African ethnicities.

METHODS

CYP2C9 genotypes were determined by the polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare groups of continuous data for significance differences.

RESULTS

Genotyping data showed that 12.7 and 5.8% of the samples were heterozygous for the CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 alleles, respectively. The CYP2C9*2 allele frequency was 0.074 in our population. It was 0.029 for CYP2C9*3.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report on the presence of CYP2C9*2 allele homozygocity in any Asian or African population.

Toward individualized treatment: prediction of anticancer drug disposition and toxicity with pharmacogenetics

A great deal of effort has been spent in defining the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of investigational and registered anticancer agents. Often, there is a marked variability in drug handling between individual patients, which contributes to variability in the pharmacodynamic effects of a given dose of a drug. A combination of physiological variables, genetic characteristics (pharmacogenetics) and environmental factors is known to alter the relationship between the absolute dose and the concentration-time profile in plasma. A variety of strategies are now being evaluated in patients with cancer to improve the therapeutic index of anticancer drugs by implementation of pharmacogenetic imprinting through genotyping or phenotyping individual patients. The efforts have mainly focused on variants in genes encoding the drug-metabolizing enzymes thiopurine S-methyltransferase, dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, members of the cytochrome P450 family, including the CYP2B, 2C, 2D and 3A subfamilies, members of the UDP glucuronosyltransferase family, as well as the ATP-binding cassette transporters ABCB1 (P-glycoprotein) and ABCG2 (breast cancer resistance protein). Several of these genotyping strategies have been shown to have substantial impact on therapeutic outcome and should eventually lead to improved anticancer chemotherapy.

Individualizing warfarin therapy

Warfarin is the most commonly prescribed oral anticoagulant for the treatment and prevention of thromboembolic events. The correct maintenance dose of warfarin for a given patient is difficult to predict, the drug carries a high risk of toxicity, and variability among patients means that the safe dose range differs widely between individuals. Recent pharmacogenetic studies indicate that the routine incorporation of genetic testing into warfarin therapy protocols could substantially ease both the financial and health risks currently associated with this treatment. In particular, the variability in warfarin dose requirement is now recognized to be due, in large part, to polymorphisms in two genes: cytochrome P450 2C9 and the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit 1. The development of algorithms that integrate all of the relevant genetic and physical factors into comprehensive, individualized predictive models for warfarin dose could be used to translate the results of pharmacogenetic testing into actionable clinical application.

Genotyping and haplotyping of CYP2C19 functional alleles on thin-film biosensor chips

OBJECTIVES

Numerous functional polymorphisms in the CYP2C19 gene have been identified; some alleles (e.g. CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3) are associated with poor metabolism of CYP2C19 substrate drugs. Studies have found that the proportion of poor metabolizers, explained by CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3, varies from less than 50% to more than 90% of poor metabolizers. Therefore, phenotype-genotype correlation studies should cover more than CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3. A broader coverage, however, requires an easy-to-use and high-throughput genotyping platform. This broader coverage should also include the recently identified functional allele, CYP2C19*10, which involves a nucleotide change adjacent to the altered nucleotide change in CYP2C19*2. The currently used restriction fragment length polymorphism-based method for genotyping CYP2C19*2 cannot distinguish between CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*10. We aim to develop a simple platform that can genotype all CYP2C19 functional alleles.

METHODS

We have developed a thin-film biosensor chip platform to genotype 16 exonic CYP2C19 variants, including two sets of two adjacent single nucleotide polymorphisms and 12 single single nucleotide polymorphisms, using a ligation strategy.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that this is a rapid, accurate, and inexpensive method for genotyping CYP2C19 variants using individual's genomic DNA samples. We further demonstrate that this genotyping platform can be used to construct a haplotype structure of the CYP2C19 variants in a population, and to assign a haplotype combination to each individual on the basis of his/her genotype results.

CONCLUSION

This assay can be applied in pharmacogenomic studies in both basic research and clinical laboratories. It is also an ideal technology for pharmacogenomic tests in both developed and developing countries.

Warfarin dose and the pharmacogenomics of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 - rationale and perspectives

Warfarin is the most widely prescribed oral anticoagulant, but there is greater than 10-fold interindividual variability in the dose required to attain a therapeutic response. Information from pharmacogenomics, the study of the interaction of an individual's genotype and drug response, can help optimize drug efficacy while minimizing adverse drug reactions. Pharmacogenetic analysis of two genes, the warfarin metabolic enzyme CYP2C9 and warfarin target enzyme, vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1 VKORC1, confirmed their influence on warfarin maintenance dose. Possession of CYP2C9*2 or CYP2C9*3 variant alleles, which result in decreased enzyme activity, is associated with a significant decrease in the mean warfarin dose. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VKORC1 are associated with warfarin dose across the normal dose range. Haplotypes based on these SNPs explain a large fraction of the interindividual variation in warfarin dose, and VKORC1 has an approximately three-fold greater effect than CYP2C9. Algorithms incorporating genetic (CYP2C9 and VKORC1), demographic, and clinical factors to estimate the warfarin dosage, could potentially minimize the risk of over dose during warfarin induction.