Interethnic variability in human drug responses

The scientific study of interethnic differences in responses to drugs has b een extant for 80 years. Many of these differences have been described at t he phenotypic level, and some have been explained by genetic factors. Howev er, it is frequently difficult to disentangle accurately the hereditary and environmental influences in phenotypic comparisons. This is where the rece nt developments in knowledge of the genes responsible for drug receptors ar e starting to make a big impact. The beta 2 adrenoceptor is described; it h as three genetic polymorphisms. The different genotypes influence responses to agonists such as albuterol (Salbutamol). New gene frequency data includ ing those for Saudi Arabians, Indians, and Africans are shown. The expandin g body of knowledge about genetic (and interethnic) variability in drug rec eptors is likely to be important in clinical medicine.