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Published on: December 3, 2020
Pharmacogenetics research in Brazil: a systematic review
Sabrina Torres-Loureiro1, Mariana M Scudeler1, Poliana Xc Andrade2
1Departamento de Patologia, Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-350, Brazil.
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) research in Brazil is growing, with MTHFR and HLA-A/B genes most studied. However, research disproportionately represents certain regions and ethnicities, highlighting data gaps.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacogenomics (PGx)
- Genetics
- Drug Metabolism
Background:
- Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is an emerging field in Brazil.
- Understanding the landscape of PGx research is crucial for guiding future scientific endeavors.
- Identifying key biomarkers, therapeutic areas, and populations studied is essential for advancing personalized medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and identify the most studied biomarkers, therapeutic areas, probe drugs, and geographical/ethnic groups in Brazilian pharmacogenomics research.
- To guide future research directions and address existing gaps in the field.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the PGx research landscape in Brazil.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 1060 studies published between 1968 and 2020.
- Analysis included data on 80 genes, 6 probe drugs, and 3,819,233 individuals.
- Evaluation of geographical regions and ethnic groups represented in the studies.
Main Results:
- The most frequently studied genes were MTHFR and HLA-A/B.
- Metoprolol and dextromethorphan were the most commonly investigated probe drugs.
- Oncology emerged as the leading therapeutic area for PGx biomarker research.
- Significant disparities were observed in the representation of Brazilian regions and ethnic groups, with underrepresentation of Center-West, Northeast, North, Black, and mixed individuals.
Conclusions:
- The review highlights significant gaps and potential future directions for pharmacogenomics research in Brazil.
- Uneven representation of demographic groups necessitates targeted research efforts to ensure equitable data.
- Further studies are recommended to broaden the scope of PGx research across diverse populations and therapeutic areas in Brazil.
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