PCR-RFLP optimisation for OPRM1 rs540825 and rs510769 gene polymorphisms and their allele/genotype frequencies in Turkish population

Objective: Opioid dependence, which has environmental and genetic components, is an important public health problem. OPRM1 gene encodes mu opioid receptor (MOR) which is a primary target for opioids. Polymorphisms on the OPRM1 gene have been shown to alter the properties and physiology of MOR and also may have impact on opioid dependence. The association between OPRM1 rs540825 and rs510769 polymorphisms and substance dependence have been shown through various studies. The purpose of this study is to develop reliable, robust and easily applicable genotyping procedures for OPRM1 rs540825 and rs510769 polymorphisms as they possess rising importance in the context of addiction and therapy success. Methods: A novel and an improved method based on polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) was employed to determine OPRM1 gene polymorphisms at positions rs510769 and rs540825, respectively. OPRM1 gene regions containing these two polymorphisms were amplified using PCR; then, RFLP method was performed using the restriction