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. 2003 Aug;58(8):703–707. doi: 10.1136/thorax.58.8.703

Polymorphisms in the ß2 adrenergic receptor and bronchodilator response, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and rate of decline in lung function in smokers

L Joos 1, T Weir 1, J Connett 1, N Anthonisen 1, R Woods 1, P Pare 1, A Sandford 1
PMCID: PMC1746784  PMID: 12885990

Abstract

Methods: The prevalence of two ADRB2 polymorphisms, Arg16→Gly and Gln27→Glu, was examined in 587 smokers chosen from the NHLBI Lung Health Study for having the fastest (n=282) and slowest (n=305) 5 year rate of decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1; mean ΔFEV1 -4.14 and +1.08% predicted/year, respectively).

Results: Contrary to our hypothesis, no ADRB2 allele or haplotype was associated with NSBH, BDR, or rate of decline in lung function. However, there was a significant negative association between heterozygosity at position 27 and a fast decline in lung function (adjusted odds ratio 0.56, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.78, p=0.0007).

Conclusions: Heterozygosity at position 27 may be protective against an accelerated rate of decline in lung function. The polymorphism at position 16 does not contribute to the rate of decline in lung function, measures of NSBH, or BDR in smokers.

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Selected References

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