Title:Genomic Variations Affecting Biological Effects of Statins
Volume: 17
Issue: 6
Author(s): Alessandra Bitto, Giovanni Pallio, Sonia Messina, Vincenzo Arcoraci, Gabriele Pizzino, Giuseppina T. Russo, Socrate Pallio, Francesco Squadrito and Domenica Altavilla
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Drug response, genetic variability, pharmacogenomics, polymorphism, statin, HMG-CoA reductase.
Abstract: Background: Statins are inhibitors of hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl coenzymeA (HMG-CoA) reductase, the
rate-limiting enzyme involved in de novo cholesterol synthesis. The patient health profile needs to be taken in account
during the interpretation of the variability in the outcome of drug therapy, as well as compliance with prescribed
pharmacological treatments, and genetic profile.
Objective: Several genetic polymorphisms playing a role in the different response to lipid lowering therapy have
recently been identified. Statins, today are used to reduce Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), represent
the treatment of choice in individuals with increased risk of Cardio-Vascular Disease (CVD), both in primary and
secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. Regardless of the usefulness in a wide range of patients, the common interindividual genetic
variability, along with phenotypic aspects, lead to resistance and adverse responses.
Methods: we reviewed on PubMed, inserting as term search “statin and polymorphism”, “statin and pharmacogenomic”, “statin and
gene”, “HMG-CoA reductase and gene”.
Results: A large number of candidate genes and many single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been evaluated and related to
pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic of statins.
Conclusion: Despite these several findings there is still not enough evidence to recommend pharmacogenomic tests before starting statin
therapy.
