Genetic aspects of methotrexate resistance in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

To study the relationship of the C3435T polymorphism of the MDR1 gene with the presence of resistance to methotrexate treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Materials and Methods: In our study, 76 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 24 practically healthy volunteers took part. Polymorphism of the C3435T gene was determined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which was carried out in a 7500 Fast Real Time PSR Systems (USA) amplifier. Results: According to the results of our studies, methotrexate resistance was detected in patients with SS genotype C3435T polymorphism of the MDR1 gene. In contrast, carriers of TT genotype showed high sensitivity to treatment and low disease activity. Conclusions: The interrelation of the C3435T polymorphism of the MDR1 gene with the presence of resistance to methotrexate treatment in patients with RA was established. Conducting genotyping of patients with rheumatoid arthritis before the appointment of methotrexate makes it possible to predict the presence of resistance to this drug.