drug-transporter gene

drug-transporter gene

One of a range of genes that code for transport proteins to which various drug molecules can attach. An example of the product of such a gene is the ABCB1 transporter (also known as MDR1) which is known to transport at least four anti-epileptic drugs. Mutations in this gene can cause multi-drug-resistant epilepsy. ABCB1 (MDR1) contributes to drug resistance in a number of diseases including several cancers, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS and inflammatory bowel disease.