Variable expression of CYP and Pgp genes in the human small intestine

Abstract

Extensive interindividual variability is characteristic for the expression of drug-metabolizing CYP and Pgp genes in human duodenum, and external factors such as drugs may further increase the variability. It is possible that the large interindividual variability may lead to variable bioavailability of orally used drugs and hence complicate optimal drug therapy, especially for drugs with a small therapeutic window. Elucidation of factors contributing to clinically important variances warrants further investigation.