Real-World Applications of Pharmacogenomics in Paediatrics

Area of Science:

• Pharmacogenomics
• Pediatric pharmacology
• Clinical genetics

Background:

• Pharmacogenomics (PGx) investigates genetic variations influencing drug responses.
• Clinical PGx testing optimizes individualized pharmacotherapy, reducing adverse drug reactions and enhancing treatment outcomes.
• This review focuses on PGx applications in pediatrics, particularly in oncology, psychiatry, and supportive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical applications of pharmacogenomics testing in pediatric populations.
• To highlight the utility of PGx in pediatric oncology, psychiatry, inflammatory bowel disease, and other areas.
• To identify barriers to PGx implementation and propose future directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical pharmacogenomics applications in pediatrics.
• Analysis of case studies demonstrating the impact of tailored pharmacotherapy.
• Discussion of systemic, educational, and economic factors influencing PGx adoption.

Main Results:

• PGx-guided therapy, such as TPMT and NUDT15 in pediatric oncology, reduces toxicity without compromising relapse rates.
• Clinical utility is demonstrated in inflammatory bowel disease, antimicrobial stewardship, analgesia, and psychotropic prescribing.
• Systemic barriers include limited clinician training, complex reporting, and low public awareness, alongside access and reimbursement issues.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacogenomics holds significant promise for improving pediatric patient care through personalized medicine.
• Addressing implementation barriers through standardized reporting, education, and collaboration is crucial for wider adoption.
• Continued research, age-specific guidelines, and economic analyses are vital for advancing pediatric pharmacogenomics.