[Polygenic risk prediction of common diseases: from epidemiology to clinical application]

Since the first map of the human genome was published in 2001 our knowledge about our genetic code has increased exponentially. In addition to high-risk genes for monogenic diseases, such as Huntington's disease and cystic fibrosis, for a number of common diseases, such as breast cancer and cardiovascular disease, many genetic variants that each have a slight increased-risk effect, have been identified via genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A polygenic risk score (PRS) can be calculated on the basis of these single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), by which an increasingly accurate prediction can be made of an individual's risk for diseases. The results of epidemiological studies in which a PRS is used to predict an individual's total genetic risk for particular diseases are promising. In the future, the PRS could be a valuable addition to traditional monogenic tests. It is, however, important that the predictive value of a genetic risk profile increases further and that it becomes more clear how a clinician must interpret this type of genetic profile - in combination with traditional risk factors.