As early as next year pharmacogenomic tests could be made available on the NHS. These revolutionary tests will make use of each individual’s unique genomes to assess their response to medications before their use in order to personalise treatments and identify which would be most effective, as well as reduce the side-effects experienced therefrom. Pharmacogenomic could also be used to manage long-term illnesses and potentially impede their progression.
Pharmacogenomic is the study of the effect of genes on a person’s response to medications and treatments. It combines pharmacology the science of drugs, and genomics the study of genes and their functions, in order to develop effective, safe medications which can be prescribed based on an individual’s unique genetic makeup.
Personalised medicine is based on the above and understanding the links between DNA and health aids in the development and improvement of healthcare delivery.
Through the combination and analysis of genomes, in relation to other diagnostic and clinical data, trends and patterns can be identified and aid in the determination of an individual’s unique risk of development of disease, as well as, assist in the early detection of illness/diseases and the determination of the most effective treatments for recovery.
Many of the drugs currently available are “one size fits all”, however, do not respond the same way for everyone. Identifying a response to medication may be difficult, some individuals may have no response while others may experience adverse drug reactions.
Researchers are studying how variants in genes affect response to medications. These genetic variations will be used to predict the efficacy of a medication for an individual and dosage will help prevent the likelihood of adverse drug reactions occurring.
Although the concept of personalised medicine is not a new one the possibilities are now far greater and may include the ability to predict each individual’s response to specific interventions, or identification of who may be at risk of developing an illness. These possibilities are growing as we combine the use of novel approaches such as whole genome sequencing, data and informatics, and wearable technology. These innovations make it possible to move to an era where personalised care is not just a thought.
To find out more about Pharmacogenomics, the NHS Genomic Medicine Service and personalised medicine follow the below links:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/genomics/nhs-genomic-med-service/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/healthcare-science/personalisedmedicine/