Genetic polymorphism and asthma

Several mutations have been found in genes encoding for proteins implied in the pathophysiology or the treatment of asthma. Until now; no causal role could nor be highlighted. The mutations were mainly studied on gene coding for the beta(2) adrenergic receptor being able to be associated with modifi cations of the phenotype of asthma or er en to modifications of response to some beta(2) agonists. Certain polymorphisms of the beta(2) adrenoceptor a re associated with polymorphisms in genes coding for peptides controlling t he expression of the beta(2) adrenoceptors. The interpretation of the effec ts observed must take into account this linkage dequilibrium.