What do CYP450 genes do?
CYP450 genes encode a variety of proteins called enzymes. Through a process called “oxidative metabolism,” the P450 enzymes enhance the water solubility of foreign substances that enter the body to aid in their excretion. Variations in enzyme activity that result from variations in the genes can affect whether a drug reaches the desired therapeutic level in the body as well as how well it clears from the body. As a result, patients can experience profound differences in how they respond to certain drugs or to standard doses.
