Transforming the practice of medicine using genomics

Recent studies have demonstrated the use of genomic data, particularly gene expression signatures, as clinical prognostic factors in complex diseases. Such studies herald the future for genomic medicine and the opportunity for personalized prognosis in a variety of clinical contexts that utilize genomescale molecular information. Several key areas represent logical and critical next steps in the use of complex genomic profiling data towards the goal of personalized medicine. First, analyses should be geared toward the development of molecular profiles that predict future events - such as major clinical events or the response, resistance, or adverse reaction to therapy. Secondly, these must move into actual clinical practice by forming the basis for the next generation of clinical trials that will employ these methodologies to stratify patients. Lastly, there remain formidable challenges is in the translation of genomic technologies into clinical medicine that will need to be addressed: professional and public education, health outcomes research, reimbursement, regulatory oversight and privacy protection.