Genome-wide screening for drug discovery and companion diagnostics

Changes in technology can often affect society and models of industry. The broad expectations for 'genomics' that were highly publicized during the previous decade have not materialized at the rate predicted. However, with the completion of the human genome, it is now possible to identify individual subject DNA profiles using platforms that measure thousands of genetic variants simultaneously and at a diminishing cost. Genome-wide screening affects two important components for success of the pharmaceutical industry. The first is drug discovery with the identification and selection of the right target for a disease or medical indication. The second involves crucial decisions required during drug development, related to proof of efficacy sufficient enough to support the enormous cost commitment for drug development. Using Alzheimer's disease as an example, the combined application of genome-wide screening, candidate gene analyses and efficacy pharmacogenetics is presented. The drivers for the industry for an evolution of present drug development come from the economic and regulatory environments, each of which are changing. The anticipated successes are effective and safe medicines for unmet medical needs, with a framework for sustaining drug pipelines.