Polymorphisms in the β2 adrenergic receptor and bronchodilator response, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and rate of decline in lung function in smokers. Issue 8 (28th July 2003)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Joos, L; Weir, T D; Connett, J E; Anthonisen, N R; Woods, R; Paré, P D; Sandford, A J
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 58:Issue 8(2003)
• Page Start: 703
• Page End: 707
• Publication Date: 2003-07-28
• Subjects: bronchial provocation tests -- lung volume measurements -- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease -- genetics -- β2 adrenergic receptors; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thorax.58.8.703
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Non-specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness (NSBH) is a known predictor of accelerated rate of decline in lung function in smokers. Polymorphisms of the β2 adrenergic receptor ( ADRB2 ) have previously been associated with NSBH and bronchodilator response (BDR) in asthmatics. Based on these associations, we hypothesised that ADRB2 polymorphisms would be associated with NSBH and BDR as well as an accelerated rate of decline in lung function among smokers. Methods: The prevalence of two ADRB2 polymorphisms, Arg16→Gly and Gln27→Glu, was examined in 587 smokers chosen from the NHLBI Lung Health Study for having the fastest (n=282) and slowest (n=305) 5 year rate of decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1 ; mean ΔFEV1 −4.14 and +1.08% predicted/year, respectively). Results: Contrary to our hypothesis, no ADRB2 allele or haplotype was associated with NSBH, BDR, or rate of decline in lung function. However, there was a significant negative association between heterozygosity at position 27 and a fast decline in lung function (adjusted odds ratio 0.56, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.78, p=0.0007). Conclusions: Heterozygosity at position 27 may be protective against an accelerated rate of decline in lung function. The polymorphism at position 16 does not contribute to the rate of decline in lung function, measures of NSBH, or BDR in smokers.