Similarities and/or dissimilarities of CYP2D6 polymorphism in three Tunisian ethnic groups: Arabs, Berbers, Numides

Using the validated probe drug debrisoquine and the 8 h urinary metabolic ratio debrisoquine/4 hydroxy-debrisoquine, we have determined the phenotype of the debrisoquine CYP2D6 dependent polymorphic metabolism in 464 Arabs, 227 Berbers and 215 Numides to elicit similarities or dissimilarities of poor metabolizer (PM) prevalence. We found 2.36 per cent of PM in Arabs, 3.08 per cent in Berbers and 2.33 per cent in Numides. These figures are similar to those observed in Middle East populations, and cannot be considered as different from those observed in Caucasians.