Sex-specific differences in CYP450 isoforms in humans.
BACKGROUND
The activity of various CYP isoforms is critical for maintaining the clinical effectiveness of many medications. Therefore, determining the sex-dependent activity of clinically relevant CYP families is highly important for optimal therapeutic effectiveness.


OBJECTIVE
This review examined the sex-dependent activity of CYP3A, CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2E1.


METHODS
This review searched for studies performed in humans and hormonal status was not a limiting factor.


CONCLUSIONS
The current evidence suggests that CYP2E1 and CYP1A2 activity is higher in males than females, while CYP3A, one of the most clinically relevant CYP isoforms, appears to have greater activity in females. Overall, more studies are needed to fully support these conclusions as there are many factors that influence drug metabolism and thus it is very difficult to isolate gender as a sole modulator of CYP activity.
University of Otago, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Marissa J
MJ
Scandlyn
Emma C
EC
Stuart
Rhonda J
RJ
Rosengren
D003577:Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006728:Hormones / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007527:Isoenzymes / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D008297:Male; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000378:metabolism*; D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; D012737:Sex Factors
D006728:Hormones; D007527:Isoenzymes; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations; D003577:Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System