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Updated: Oct 2, 2026

Multi-Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Detection in Gastric Cancer Based on Ion Semiconductor Sequencing Platform
Published on: May 10, 2024
Polymorphisms of metabolizing enzymes and transporter proteins involved in the clearance of anticancer agents
1Internal Medicine & Thoracic Oncology Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. isekine@gan2.ncc.go.jp
Background:
The efficacies and toxicities of anticancer agents vary greatly among patients. This is attributable to the activities of drug-metabolizing enzymes and membrane transporters, primarily determined by polymorphisms of the functions of genes encoding these proteins.
Design:
We reviewed the available literature on drug-metabolizing enzymes and membrane transporters, especially their physiological functions, genetic and functional polymorphisms, and involvement in metabolism, pharmacokinetics and toxicity of anticancer agents.
Results:
Nine enzymes metabolizing anticancer agents have been shown to have genetic polymorphisms: dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, cytochrome P450, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1, N-acetyltransferase 2, thiopurine methyltransferase, glutathione S-transferase, and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase. Decreased activities of these proteins can cause not only inherited metabolic disorders, but also extraordinarily severe toxicity in cancer patients given chemothearpy. Transporter proteins mediate cellular uptake and secretion of organic anions and cations. These proteins have recently been shown to play critical roles in the clearance of anticancer agents, although relations between patients' genetics backgrounds and the clinical significance of drug actions are poorly understood.
Conclusions:
Further studies should be focused on dosing and selection of anticancer agents, based on the type and extent of metabolic variation among individuals, in order to avoid adverse reactions and therapeutic failure.
Insights
Genetic variations in drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters significantly impact anticancer drug efficacy and toxicity. Understanding these genetic differences is crucial for personalized cancer treatment to prevent adverse reactions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics
- Oncology
- Drug Metabolism
Background:
- Anticancer agent efficacy and toxicity vary significantly among patients.
- Genetic polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters are key determinants of this variability.
- These genetic factors influence drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and overall treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on drug-metabolizing enzymes and membrane transporters.
- To explore their physiological functions, genetic polymorphisms, and roles in anticancer drug metabolism and toxicity.
- To understand the clinical significance of genetic backgrounds in drug actions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of drug-metabolizing enzymes and membrane transporters.
- Analysis of genetic and functional polymorphisms.
- Examination of involvement in anticancer agent metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity.
Main Results:
- Nine key enzymes (e.g., CYP450, GST) involved in anticancer drug metabolism exhibit genetic polymorphisms.
- Polymorphisms can lead to reduced enzyme activity, causing metabolic disorders and severe toxicity in cancer patients.
- Transporter proteins play critical roles in anticancer agent clearance, but their genetic links to clinical outcomes are not well-understood.
Conclusions:
- Individualized dosing and selection of anticancer agents are necessary.
- Tailoring treatment based on metabolic variations can help avoid adverse reactions and therapeutic failure.
- Further research into pharmacogenomics is essential for optimizing cancer therapy.
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