β‑blockers inhibit the viability of breast cancer cells by regulating the ERK/COX‑2 signaling pathway and the drug response is affected by ADRB2 single‑nucleotide polymorphisms.

The β2‑adrenergic receptor (β2‑AR, encoded by the ADRB2 gene) is a member of the G‑protein‑coupled receptor superfamily that can be stimulated by catecholamines. Studies in vivo and in vitro have confirmed that β‑blockers (β‑AR antagonists) exert antitumor effects on various tumors. Furthermore, ADRB2 single‑nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified to alter the expression and conformation of β2‑AR, which may alter the β‑blocker drug response.

Polymorphisms of ABAT, SCN2A and ALDH5A1 may affect valproic acid responses in the treatment of epilepsy in Chinese.

Aim: The clinical efficacy of valproic acid (VPA) varies greatly among epileptic patients. To find the potential genetic factors related to VPA responses, the pharmacogenetics study was conducted.

Methods: Two hundred and one Chinese Han epileptic patients who were treated by VPA for at least 1 year were recruited.

The potential anticancer effect of beta-blockers and the genetic variations involved in the interindividual difference.

β-ARs are extensively spread in different tissues of our body, which could be activated by neurotransmitters norepinephrine and epinephrine to mediate physiological function and abnormal states including cancer. Recently, β-AR blockers could have significant implications in cancer therapy. But the precise molecular mechanisms are far from being fully understood.