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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cancer Drug Sensitization In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: February 6, 2015
Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics as new tools to optimise cancer chemotherapy
1Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, Institut Bergonié, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France. robert@bergonie.org
Abstract:
Pharmacogenetics takes into account the individual variability of the genome and its relationships with drug activity. Numerous gene polymorphisms occurring at the level of drug metabolising enzymes, drug transporters or drug targets have been identified; they may be responsible for an alteration of the phenotype, and of individual changes in drug efficacy and/or toxicity. Pharmacogenomics takes into account the genetic alterations present in tumours and their role in drug activity. It may be possible to establish correlations between the activity of a drug and the level of expression of tumour genes, and thus select the most appropriate drugs to prescribe for the treatment of individual tumours. Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics are acting synergistically for the personalisation of treatments, on the basis of the constitutive singularity of patients and of the molecular characteristics of tumours.
Insights
Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics personalize medicine by analyzing individual genetic variations and tumor gene expression. This approach optimizes drug efficacy and minimizes toxicity for tailored patient treatments.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Individual genetic variability influences drug response.
- Gene polymorphisms affect drug metabolism, transport, and targets, altering efficacy and toxicity.
- Tumor genetic alterations impact drug activity and treatment selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the synergistic roles of pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics in personalized medicine.
- To highlight how understanding genetic individuality and tumor molecular characteristics can guide treatment decisions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of gene polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, and targets.
- Correlation of tumor gene expression levels with drug activity.
- Synergistic application of pharmacogenetic and pharmacogenomic data.
Main Results:
- Identification of numerous gene polymorphisms affecting drug efficacy and toxicity.
- Establishment of correlations between tumor gene expression and drug response.
- Demonstration of the potential for personalized drug selection based on genetic profiles.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics enable personalized treatment strategies.
- Tailoring therapies based on patient's genetic makeup and tumor's molecular profile improves outcomes.
- These fields are crucial for advancing precision medicine in clinical practice.
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