Human pharmacogenomics: the development of a science

Area of Science:

• Pharmacogenetics
• Genomics
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Historically, genetic influences on drug response were rarely observed.
• The field of pharmacogenetics emerged from early discoveries linking genetic deficiencies to altered drug metabolism.

Observation:

• The discovery of a genetic variant in butyrylcholinesterase significantly impacted succinylcholine's action.
• Subsequent research revealed common interethnic differences in drug responses and the multigenic nature of most pharmacological variations.

Findings:

• Pharmacogenetics expanded by recognizing widespread interethnic drug response variations.
• Advancements in methodologies transitioned the field to pharmacogenomics, enabling the identification of key genetic variants and novel drug targets.

Implications:

• Pharmacogenomics facilitates personalized medicine, tailoring drug selection to a patient's genetic makeup.
• This approach holds the potential to enhance drug safety and therapeutic efficacy, though challenges and uncertainties remain.