Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) Genotype, Varies
Use
The COMT Genotype test is useful for predicting the response to nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation and investigating dosing strategies to reduce levodopa metabolism in Parkinson's disease therapy. It is also applied in research settings to assess estrogen metabolism. COMT is involved in the phase II metabolism of catecholamines, catechol drugs such as dopamine, and catechol-estrogens. COMT transfers a methyl group to catechol structures, impacting metabolites like normetanephrine, metanephrine, and homovanillic acid.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This test detects the Val108/158Met single nucleotide variant in exon 4 of the COMT gene, which significantly reduces enzyme activity compared to the wild type. The absence of a detectable variant does not rule out an intermediate or poor metabolizer phenotype. Variants in primer binding regions may affect results, as could donor DNA from blood transfusions or transplants. The enzyme activity can be influenced by medication and dietary factors that interact with COMT.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based
Biomarkers
COMT
GeneCOMT
Gene
LOINC Codes
- 74511-7 - COMT c.1947G>A Geno Bld/T
- 74511-7 - COMT c.1947G>A Geno Bld/T
- 93411-7 - COMT gene prod met activ Bld/T-Imp
- 69047-9 - Geneticist review
- 48767-8 - Annotation comment Imp
- 85069-3 - Lab test method
- 62364-5 - Test performance info Spec
- 18771-6 - Provider signing name
Result Turnaround Time
3-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Lavender top (EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Invert several times to mix blood. Send specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.
Storage Instructions
Ambient or refrigerated; stable for 4 days, frozen for 4 days
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 days |
| Refrigerated | 4 days |
| Frozen | 4 days |