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1: Oncogene. 2003 Oct 20;22(47):7403-13.Click here to read Links

Drug methylation in cancer therapy: lessons from the TPMT polymorphism.

Krynetski E, Evans WE.

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, 332 N. Lauderdale, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.

The genetic polymorphism of thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) is one of the most developed examples of pharmacogenetics, spanning from molecular genetics to clinical diagnostics for individualizing thiopurine therapy (i.e. azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and thioguanine). Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms and biochemical consequences of TPMT deficiency demonstrates how pharmacogenetic traits can be identified, characterized, and translated to the bedside. Insights gained from studies of the TPMT polymorphism illustrate the potential of pharmacogenomics to optimize cancer therapy by avoiding toxic side effects in genetically distinct subgroups of patients.

PMID: 14576848 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Patient Drug Information

  • Mercaptopurine (Purinethol® )

    Your doctor has ordered the drug mercaptopurine to help treat your illness. The drug is taken by mouth in tablet form.

  • Azathioprine (Azasan® , Imuran® )

    Azathioprine is used with other medications to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. It is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain and swellin...

  • Thioguanine (Thioguanine Tabloid® )

    Your doctor has ordered the drug thioguanine to help treat your illness. The drug can be taken by mouth in tablet form.

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