Drug-mediated toxicity caused by genetic deficiency of UDP-glucuronosyltransferases

Human gene families encoding UDP-Glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) have been identified and partially characterised. This family of enzymes catalysed th e glucuronidation of drugs, xenobiotics and endobiotics. Genetic mutations and polymorphisms have been identified in several UGT genes and examples sh ould be anticipated in all UGT genes. A common genetic defect in the TATA b ox promoter of the UGT1A1 gene is associated with Gilbert's Syndrome (GS) c ausing mild hyperbilirubinaemia. Recently, adverse effects of anticancer ag ents have been observed in Gilbert's patients due to reduced drug or biliru bin glucuronidation. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights rese rved.