Laboratory Corporation of America (LabCorp) has announced that the xTAG CYP2D6 Kit v3 qualitative genotyping assay, which helps clinicians in determining strategies for therapeutics metabolized by the CYP2D6 gene product, is now available from Luminex.

The CYP2D6 gene encodes a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes known to contribute to the metabolism of many clinically relevant drugs in several therapeutic areas.

The highly polymorphic CYP2D6 is responsible for the metabolism and elimination of approximately 25% of all prescribed drugs.

CYP2D6’s genetic polymorphisms are associated with different drug metabolizing phenotypes and can be used to assess the potential for altered enzyme activity.

Many commonly prescribed classes of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 are used for the treatment of cardiovascular conditions and clinical depression and as analgesics.

LabCorp Chief Medical Officer Dr Mark Brecher said that an individual’s CYP2D6 genotype is an important factor to be considered prior to initiating therapy, and Luminex’s xTAG CYP2D6 genotype assay will provide clinicians with diagnostic information to help tailor patient specific treatments.

"Other factors, such as race, ethnicity, diet and potential drug interactions can be determined through observation or reporting, but CYP2D6 genotype can only be assessed through tests like this," Dr Brecher added.

The xTAG CYP2D6 Kit v3 qualitative genotyping assay has already received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration.