[Receptor polymorphism and response to treatment in schizophrenia]

The new molecular genetic methods have generated dynamic changes in the field of schizophrenia research in the last decade. There is increasing knowledge about potential genetic variants affecting the phenotype in terms of response to antipsychotic therapy. It is known that polymorphisms of genes encoding proteins that participate in the metabolism of neuroleptics, alter the pharmacokinetics of drugs. In addition, experience has been emerging about receptor polymorphisms that may play substantial role in the etiology and pharmacotherapy of schizophrenia. These data throw new light upon issue of therapy resistance in schizophrenia. Authors review the literature about polymorphisms of neurotransmitter systems relevant to schizophrenia, and its associations with the response to typical and atypical antipsychotic treatments. They outline the trends of pharmacogenomics and its perspectives in the research of new treatment possibilities in schizophrenia.