Role of β2 adrenoreceptor gene polymorphism in the formation of cold hyperreactivity of the airways in asthmatics.

The relationship between β(2)-adrenoreceptor gene Arg16Gly polymorphism and bronchial cold reactivity has been studied. Genotype Arg16Arg and allele Arg16 carriership is associated with the development of cold bronchospasm in asthmatics. In addition, a significant reduction of 3,5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) level has been recorded in Arg16Arg homozygotes on minute 30 after cold provocation in comparison with Gly16Gly genotype carriers. These data indicate the influence of primary dysfunction of β(2)-adrenoreceptors for the formation of bronchial cold hyperreactivity in the patients. Reduced cAMP synthesis by cells in Arg16Arg carriers indicates congenital liability of their β(2)-adrenoreceptors to desensitization during cold air isocapnic hyperventilation test.