Organization, structure and evolution of the CYP2 gene cluster on human chromosome 19

The cytochrome P450 superfamily of mixed-function oxygenases has been exten sively studied due to its many critical metabolic roles, and also because i t is a fascinating example of gene family evolution. The cluster of genes o n human chromosome 19 from the CYP2A, 2B, and 2F subfamilies has been previ ously described as having a complex organization and many pseudogenes. We d escribe the discovery of genes from three more CYP2 subfamilies inside the cluster, and assemble a complete map of the region. We comprehensively revi ew the organization, structure, and expression of genes from all six subfam ilies. A general hypothesis for the evolution of this complex gene cluster is also presented. Pharmacogenetics 11:687-698 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.