rs762551 - Fast or Slow Caffeine Metabolizer?
Gene: CYP1A2
rs762551 determines how quickly your liver breaks down caffeine. CYP1A2 is the primary enzyme responsible for caffeine metabolism, and this variant significantly affects the enzyme's activity level.
Genotype Interpretations
Fast caffeine metabolizer - coffee is cleared quickly. May benefit from coffee's cardioprotective effects
Intermediate metabolizer - moderate caffeine clearance. Limit afternoon coffee for better sleep
Slow metabolizer - caffeine lingers 2-3x longer. 2+ cups/day associated with increased heart attack risk
Population Context
The fast-metabolizer A allele is common globally. CYP1A2 activity is also influenced by smoking (induces the enzyme), cruciferous vegetables (induces), and oral contraceptives (inhibits).
Clinical Relevance
Slow metabolizers should limit coffee to 1-2 cups before noon. Fast metabolizers may drink 3-4 cups safely. Also affects theophylline (asthma drug) and melatonin metabolism.
Sources
- [1] Cornelis MC et al. (2006) JAMA 295:1135-41
- [2] Sachse C et al. (1999) Br J Clin Pharmacol 47:445-9
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