Design of Allele Specific PCR for Rapid Detection of CYP3A5 (A6986G) and Mdr-1 (C3435T) Polymorphisms.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in CYP3A5 (A6986G) and MDR-1 (C3435T) genes have been shown to be associated with the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in case of renal transplant recipients. Knowing these genotypes of the recipients before undergoing transplantation, is therefore essential for physicians to adjust the starting dose of tacrolimus in order to avoid drug induced nephrotoxicity. We have designed an allele specific PCR method for easier and rapid detection of these polymorphisms. 20 Indian renal transplant recipients on tacrolimus who developed nephrotoxicity within 1 month of transplantation and 58 Indian non-transplant subjects having the risk factors for kidney disease i.e. hypertension or diabetes or the family history of these, have been studied for these SNPs by allele specific PCR method. The data suggest that the heterozygosity of CYP3A5 and mutant allele frequency of MDR-1 SNP is higher in transplant patients as well as in general population.