Genetics and pharmacogenetics of aminergic transmitter pathways in functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are highly prevalent syndromes, without evident underlying organic causes. Their pathogenesis is multifactorial in nature, with a combination of environmental and genetic factors contributing to their clinical manifestations, for which most of current treatments are not satisfactory. It is acknowledged that amine mediators (noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin) play pivotal regulatory actions on gut functions and visceral sensation. In addition, drugs of therapeutic interest for FGIDs act on these transmitter pathways. The present article reviews current knowledge on the impact of genetics and pharmacogenetics of aminergic pathways on FGID pathophysiology, clinical presentations, symptom severity and medical management, in an attempt of highlighting the most relevant evidence and point out issues that should be addressed in future investigations.
Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Translational Research & New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, I-56124 Pisa, Italy.
Irene
I
Martinucci
Corrado
C
Blandizzi
Nicola
N
de Bortoli
Massimo
M
Bellini
Luca
L
Antonioli
Marco
M
Tuccori
Matteo
M
Fornai
Santino
S
Marchi
Rocchina
R
Colucci
D001679:Biogenic Amines / Q000502:physiology*; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology*; D010597:Pharmacogenetics
D001679:Biogenic Amines; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents
dopamine; functional constipation; functional dyspepsia; functional gastrointestinal disorders; irritable bowel syndrome; noradrenaline; polymorphism; serotonin