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Pharmacogenomics in pediatric rheumatology
1Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Section of Rheumatology, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA. mlbecker@cmh.edu
Current Opinion in Rheumatology
|June 27, 2012
Summary
Genetic variations influence drug response in rheumatic diseases. Further research is needed to overcome challenges in applying pharmacogenomics, especially in pediatric rheumatology, for personalized medicine.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics
- Rheumatic Diseases
- Pediatric Rheumatology
Background:
- Drug response variability is a significant challenge in rheumatic diseases.
- Genetic factors are increasingly recognized as contributors to this variability.
- Translating genetic findings into clinical practice remains difficult.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent genetic associations with drug response in rheumatic diseases.
- To highlight the challenges in applying pharmacogenomic data, particularly in pediatric populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent genetic association studies in rheumatic disease pharmacogenomics.
- Analysis of findings related to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, antimetabolites, and biologics.
- Consideration of ontogeny in pediatric pharmacogenomic research.
Main Results:
- New genetic associations identified for various drug classes in rheumatic diseases.
- Many reported findings require replication and validation.
- Few studies have adequately addressed pediatric-specific ontogenic factors.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variation is crucial for understanding and potentially individualizing therapeutic responses.
- Significant hurdles exist in establishing robust pharmacogenomic associations in pediatric rheumatology.
- Continued research is essential to overcome these challenges and advance personalized care.
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