This study delves into the impact of four specific SNP loci within SLCO1B3 on pre-statin oral plasma lipid profiles in both the Chinese Han and Uyghur populations. Furthermore, we investigate the influence of these SNP loci on lipid-lowering responses following statin administration within these two populations. Concurrently, we aim to elucidate any potential correlation between the four SNP loci of SLCO1B3 and statin drug sensitivity.
Subsequent investigations within significant clinical trials such as ACCESS, PRINCE, PROSPER, JUPITER, and TNT have consistently demonstrated that patients undergoing statin therapy witness notable lipid alterations as early as the fourth week of treatment initiation. Moreover, beyond this initial period, lipid levels tend to remain relatively stable. It is worth noting that even among patients adhering well to treatment and undergoing standardized therapeutic protocols, variations in the extent of LDL-C reduction persist (17–21).Within the same cohort, the magnitude of LDL-C reduction induced by statin therapy varies significantly, ranging from 31–63%(22).
Our study revealed that in both Han and Uyghur populations, statin therapy effectively lowered levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, APOA1, and APOB, while Lpa and HDL-C plasma concentrations remained unchanged before and after treatment, aligning with the consensus of most research findings. Interestingly, our investigation also uncovered a notable reduction in ALT and AST levels among the Uyghur population after statin treatment, with significant statistical differences. This intriguing observation suggests the possibility of a higher tolerance to statins among the Uyghur ethnic group, warranting further investigation.
The SLC superfamily comprises organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP/SLCO) and statin drugs are substrates for these members. Among them, SLCO1B3, a member of the SLC superfamily, is specifically expressed on the sinusoidal membrane of hepatocytes, playing a crucial role in the uptake, transport, and metabolism of drugs. Consequently, alterations in the activity or expression of transport proteins on the hepatocyte surface can impact the absorption of statin drugs, resulting in variations in their lipid-lowering efficiency.
The point mutation rs2117032 is located in the intronic region downstream of the SLCO1B3 gene at chr12:2092118. Our study reveals significant impacts of SNP1 (rs2117032) in the Han population, affecting pre-statin levels of APOB and subsequently influencing post-statin levels of APOB, Lpa, and AST. Furthermore, SNP1's genetic polymorphism significantly affects the LDL-C reduction rate after statin therapy. However, these effects were not observed in the Uyghur population. Instead, in the Uyghur population, SNP1 was found to influence Tbil levels, consistent with previous research linking rs2117032 polymorphism to serum bilirubin levels. While direct effects of rs2117032 on lipid levels have not been reported, studies have highlighted the role of SLCO-encoded organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) in cellular uptake of various compounds, including androgens. Notably, the nucleotide polymorphism of SLCO1B3 has been shown to alter the efficiency of androgen transport(23),The influence of androgens on lipid metabolism is noteworthy. Therefore, further investigation is warranted to ascertain whether rs2117032 exerts an impact on lipid profiles.
SNP2 (rs3764006) is situated downstream of the SLCO1B3 gene at chr12:20901435. Currently, limited research exists regarding this SNP locus, and its impact on lipid levels and statin efficacy remains unexplored. Our study unveils correlations within the Han population. Specifically, SNP2 (rs3764006) is associated with pre-atorvastatin TBil and ALT levels. Additionally, SNP2 polymorphism correlates with post-atorvastatin LDL-C, APOB, Lpa, and AST levels. Importantly, our research highlights the significant influence of SNP2 polymorphism on the rate of decline in LDL-C and APOB following atorvastatin usage. Notably, these effects of SNP2 are absent within the Uighur population. Among Uighur individuals, SNP2's impact on pre-atorvastatin APOA levels is observed, adding complexity to our findings.
SNP3 (rs4149117) is situated upstream of the SLCO1B3 gene at chr12:20858546. Studies indicate a correlation between rs4149117 and the response to total cholesterol reduction(24).Our study reveals that in the Han population, SNP3 (rs4149117) significantly affects pre-atorvastatin LDL-C, TC, and TG levels. Post-atorvastatin, SNP3 also notably impacts TG, ALT, and AST levels. These effects are absent in the Uighur population, except for SNP3's influence on the average post-statin AST reduction among Uighurs.
SNP4 (rs2417940) is positioned upstream of the SLCO1B3 gene at chr12:20864941. Current research has established a significant impact of rs2417940 on bilirubin levels in the population(25, 26).Our study also uncovers that within the Han population, SNP4 (rs2417940) significantly affects pre-atorvastatin Tbil levels. Moreover, SNP4 significantly influences post-atorvastatin TG and Tbil levels. These effects are absent in the Uighur population. Among the Uighur cohort, we observed a significant impact of SNP4 on the average post-statin LDL-C reduction rate.
To further delve into the correlation between SLCO1B3 gene polymorphisms and statin efficacy, we employed the reduction percentage of LDL-C after statin treatment as our grouping criterion. We categorized individuals based on whether their post-statin LDL-C decrease from baseline was ≥ 50% (sensitive group) or < 50% (control group). Upon conducting subgroup analyses, we ascertained that SNP1 (rs2117032) does not influence statin responsiveness in either the Han or Uighur populations.Conversely, within the Han ethnic group, SNP2 (rs3764006) significantly affects statin sensitivity. In the recessive model of SNP2, the probability of statin sensitivity for AG + GG genotypes is 2.05 times that of the AA genotype (OR = 2.05, 95%CI = 1.23–3.43, P = 0.006). In the additive model of SNP2, the probability of statin sensitivity for AA + GG genotypes is 44% lower than that of the AG genotype (OR = 0.56, 95%CI = 0.34–0.93, P = 0.024). However, this impact is not evident in the Uighur population.In the Han population, SNP3 (rs4149117) does not significantly impact statin sensitivity. Yet, within the Uighur population, SNP3 notably influences statin sensitivity. In the recessive model of SNP3, the probability of statin sensitivity for GT + TT genotypes is 2.21 times that of the GG genotype (OR = 2.21, 95%CI = 1.13–4.32, P = 0.02). In the additive model of SNP3, the probability of statin sensitivity for GG + TT genotypes is 49% lower than that of the GT genotype (OR = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.26–0.99, P = 0.047).SNP4 (rs2417940) does not influence statin sensitivity in either the Han or Uighur populations.
Upon performing haplotype analysis, we found distinct patterns. Within the Han ethnic group, the frequencies of the H3 (C-G-G) haplotype were significantly elevated in the statin-sensitive cohort compared to the control group (OR = 1.861, 95%CI: 1.178–2.939, p = 0.007). Conversely, in the Uighur population, the frequencies of the H6 (T-A-T) haplotype were markedly higher in the statin-sensitive group compared to the control group (OR = 4.906, 95%CI: 1.549–15.541, p = 0.0029).
When exploring the impact of SLCO1B3 genetic variability on lipid metabolism and the efficacy of statin drugs, it is important to consider its potential clinical applications. Personalized medicine is increasingly becoming a prominent trend in the medical field due to the significant variations in drug responses among different individuals. The findings of this study provide a novel avenue for incorporating genetic information into medical decision-making.
Furthermore, genetic polymorphisms may also be associated with the occurrence of adverse drug reactions and side effects. By delving into the relationship between genetic variations and drug metabolism pathways, we can better predict which patients might experience adverse reactions, allowing for the implementation of appropriate preventive measures or adjustments to treatment plans.
However, personalized medicine faces challenges in practical implementation. Firstly, obtaining and analyzing genetic information requires specialized techniques and equipment, which may limit its widespread use in clinical settings. Secondly, although genetic polymorphisms to some extent explain individual differences in drug responses, other factors such as environment, lifestyle, and coexisting diseases can also influence drug reactions. Therefore, when incorporating genetic information into clinical decision-making, multiple factors need to be comprehensively considered.
Additionally, we need to consider the relationship between drug sensitivity and disease prognosis. The potential correlation between certain genetic variations and the risk of cardiovascular events warrants further investigation. Such studies contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between genes and diseases.
Finally, although this study obtained consistent results in two different populations, the applicability of these findings in other ethnic groups needs further validation due to differences in race and geography. Moreover, with the continuous advancement of technology, new genetic variations may be discovered, potentially impacting our understanding of SLCO1B3 genetic polymorphisms.
In conclusion, this study delves into the influence of SLCO1B3 genetic variability on lipid metabolism and the efficacy of statin drugs, paving the way for new directions in personalized medicine. However, further research is required to elucidate its molecular mechanisms, clinical applications, and interactions with other factors, ultimately leading to more precise treatment strategies and better serving the health of patients.