The Identification of Butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE) Polymorphisms in a Small Australian Defence Force Cohort
Abstract
Genetic variation in the plasma enzyme butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE) affects the response of humans to xenobiotic agents. Mutations in BCHE are responsible for the majority of cases of prolonged apnea following the administration of succinylcholine. In addition, genetic variation in BCHE is linked to sensitivity to both organophosphate and carbamate compounds, including the deployment related drugs pyridostigmine, physostigmine, heptyl physostigmine and SDZ-ENZ 713. The study described in this report successfully screened the four coding regions (and surrounding intronic regions) of BCHE for both novel and known polymorphisms. High Resolution Melt (HRM) and sequencing procedures revealed 12 different genetic polymorphisms, and 35/51 individuals were shown to carry at least one BCHE polymorphism. Eight of the polymorphisms had been documented previously, two of which have been reported in individuals with succinylcholine and pyridostigmine sensitivities. Of the four novel polymorphisms found, two are predicted to change an amino acid in BCHE. This study has demonstrated clearly that unique and important functional genetic variation may be found and there may be a small subset of individuals in the ADF with enhanced sensitivity to succinylcholine and organophosphate and carbamate compounds.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA538109
Entities
People
- Justine Lewis
- Katherine A. Shields
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group