DRD2/ANKK1 gene polymorphisms in forensic autopsies of methamphetamine intoxication fatalities

Forensic autopsy often identifies methamphetamine (MA) as the cause of fatal intoxication. MA is a central nervous system stimulant, and its dependence is a serious public health issue worldwide. Individual variability in response to drugs has also been widely reported [1]. MA blood concentrations vary widely in cases of fatal MA intoxication; however, these levels can be lower than the lethal concentration and still be fatal. Therefore, the effects of a MA depend on the genetic differences of the individuals.

Source: Legal Medicine - April 21, 2018 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Aya Matsusue, Takaki Ishikawa, Tomoya Ikeda, Naoto Tani, Hisatomi Arima, Brian Waters, Kenji Hara, Masayuki Kashiwagi, Mio Takayama, Natsuki Ikematsu, Shin-ichi Kubo Tags: Short Communication Source Type: research