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Catechol-O-Methyltransferase Effects on Smoking: A Review and Proof of Concept of Sex-Sensitive Effects
Elise E DeVito1, Mehmet Sofuoglu1,2
1Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New Haven, CT, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
This article reviews recent research on how catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) may impact cigarette smoking behavior, and how effects may be sex-sensitive. Preliminary data are presented on sex-sensitive effects of COMT on response to short-term abstinence in individuals who smoke.
Recent Findings:
Although research is mixed, functional variants in the COMT gene have been linked with smoking behavior, cessation outcomes and nicotine abstinence-related symptoms. Our proof-of-concept preliminary data from a human laboratory study of individuals who smoke cigarettes found that those with the high COMT enzyme activity genotype (Val/Val) reported more severe smoking urges and withdrawal symptoms following overnight abstinence than Met carriers. These effects were present in women, but not in men and were abstinent-dependent, in that they dissipated following nicotine administration.
Summary:
The preliminary data showing sex-sensitive pharmacogenetic effects may shed light on mechanisms contributing to sex differences in barriers to smoking cessation or potential sex-specific treatment options.
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