Pharmacogenetic studies in Alzheimer disease

Area of Science:

• Pharmacogenetics
• Neuroscience
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Alzheimer disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia, impacting elderly quality of life.
• Current treatments offer limited efficacy, with only one-third of patients responding.
• Genetic factors influence individual responses to AD medications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review pharmacogenetic reports on AD-modifying drugs.
• To identify commonly studied biomarkers and phenotypes.
• To discuss methodological considerations for AD pharmacogenetic research.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 33 pharmacogenetic reports concerning AD drugs.
• Analysis of pharmacogenetic biomarkers (e.g., CYP2D6, APOE) and evaluated phenotypes.
• Inclusion of studies across diverse populations (Caucasian, Korean, Indian, Brazilian).

Main Results:

• Most studies focused on donepezil response and metabolism variability.
• CYP2D6 and APOE were the most frequently investigated biomarkers.
• Proposed pharmacogenetic associations remain controversial.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacogenetic biomarkers for AD drugs have been identified.
• Further research is needed in diverse populations and for novel biomarkers.
• Personalized treatment strategies for AD could be improved by pharmacogenetics.