The Role of SLC22A4 Gene Polymorphisms in the Response to Salbutamol in Asthmatic Patients

Response to Bronchodilators is influenced by many factors including genetics. To evaluate the influence of SLC22A4 gene polymorphisms (rs3792876 and rs2073838) on the response to inhaled salbutamol in asthmatic patients, bronchodilator response was assessed in 180 bronchial asthma patients via measuring changes of the Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) after the administration of inhaled salbutamol and genotyping for rs3792876 and rs2073838 was carried out using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Frequencies of genotypes were compared in between responders and non-responders. The frequency of rs2073838 genotypes showed no significant differences. On the other hand, the recessive genotype of rs3792876 occurred more frequently among the non-responding patients P = 0.01, 95% confidence interval (1.2-9.5). The homozygous form of rs3792876 can influence the absorption of inhaled bronchodilator (Salbutamol), although, replication studies on this point are recommended.