North African genetic variation of cytochrome and sulfotransferase genes

Abstract

This review is focused on the genetic variation of sulfotransferases (SULTs) and cytochromes (CYPs) genes among different ethnic groups, mainly focusing in variation in North African populations. Polymorphisms of SULTs and CYPs proteins are associated with altered enzymatic activity and physical characteristics. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in these genes have shown relevant ethnic differences among Sub-Saharan African and European groups that might contribute to understand the variability in drug metabolism and risk to certain cancers that has been described among these two groups. Taking into account that North African populations have been scarcely described for these genes, and considering the rich genetic past of this region with a noticeable Sub-Saharan African contribution to their original background, it is interesting a revision and description of some relevant polymorphisms.