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Review
. 2010 Dec;88(6):779-91.
doi: 10.1038/clpt.2010.175. Epub 2010 Oct 27.

Breaking barriers in the genomics and pharmacogenetics of drug addiction

M K Ho  1 , D Goldman, A Heinz, J Kaprio, M J Kreek, M D Li, M R Munafò, R F Tyndale
Affiliations
Review

Breaking barriers in the genomics and pharmacogenetics of drug addiction

M K Ho et al. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2010 Dec.

Abstract

Drug addiction remains a substantial health issue with limited treatment options currently available. Despite considerable advances in the understanding of human genetic architecture, the genetic underpinning of complex disorders remains elusive. On the basis of our current understanding of neurobiology, numerous candidate genes have been implicated in the etiology and response to treatment for different addictions. Genome-wide association (GWA) studies have also identified novel targets. However, replication of these studies is often lacking, and this complicates interpretation. The situation is expected to improve as issues such as phenotypic characterization, the apparent "missing heritability," the identification of functional variants, and possible gene-environment (G × E) interactions are addressed. In addition, there is growing evidence that genetic information can be useful in refining the choice of addiction treatment. As genetic testing becomes more common in the practice of medicine, a variety of ethical and practical challenges, some of which are unique to drug addiction, will also need to be considered.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interests

Dr. J. Kaprio has served as a consultant to Pfizer. To receive compensation from the University of Virginia, Dr. M.D. Li has served as a consultant to NIH, DeCODE genetics, University of Pennsylvania, Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals, Pennsylvania Department of Health, and Informational Managements Consulting. Dr. M.D. Li also serves as a scientific advisor to ADial Pharmaceuticals. Dr. R.F. Tyndale hold shares and is a CSO in Nicogen Research Inc., a company that is focused on novel smoking cessation treatment approaches. None of the data contained in this manuscript alters or improves any commercial aspect of Nicogen, no Nicogen funds were used in this work, and the manuscript was not reviewed by others affiliated with Nicogen. Dr. R.F. Tyndale has also been a paid consultant for Novartis. MKH and Drs. D. Goldman, A. Heinz, M.J. Kreek and M.R. Munafò report no conflicts of interest.

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References

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