This approach uses a single DNA test to analyse one’s genes

Having laid down the bedrock of pharmacogenomic research, JIPMER is now looking to increasingly extend the clinical benefits to a larger section of patients by using genetic data to personalise treatment.

Pharmacogenomics, a science that tries to establish an association of the genetic make-up of an individual with the treatment response, is founded on the idea that one drug dose is not suitable for everyone.

Also, by examining how genes affect biological response to drugs, it helps guide physicians in both avoiding adverse drug reactions and also choosing the best possible drug for a condition based on a patient’s genetic make-up.

Importantly, instead of advocating a ‘trial and error’ method of prescription, this approach uses a single DNA test to analyse one’s genes and which code for drug-metabolising enzymes or receptors are known to affect the drug response.

However, even as pharmacogenomics has triggered a spurt of research at JIPMER’s pharmacology department, the extension of clinical benefits has been on a limited scale.

“The costs involved to undertake tests as well as the lack of a critical mass of samples to make testing cost-effective is an impediment,” said Dr. D.G. Shewade, Professor of Pharmacology.

As part of raising awareness about the potential of pharmacogenomics among clinicians, JIPMER launched the 12th edition of its national workshop on basic techniques in molecular biology and bio-informatics in pharmacogenomics.

Dr. S. C. Parija, Director, JIPMER, even while emphasising the clinical importance of pharmacogenomics, also underlined its multi-disciplinary character. Pharmacogenomics should be a collaborative science with all other specialties thereby helping in personalising treatment for various diseases, he said.

Pharmacogenomic testing of genes such as CYP2C9, CYP2C19, TPMT and VKORC1 genes could promote personalised treatment of patients with conditions such as epilepsy, peptic ulcer, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, stroke, heart disease or deep vein thrombosis.

Dr. S. C. Pradhan, Senior Professor and Head, Dept. of Pharmacology, said since 2004, JIPMER had been hosting the workshop and had so far trained more than 300 doctors and research scholars. In all, 37 participants, spanning all regions of India - Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab and Puducherry - are attending the 12th national workshop.

By the end of the three day workshop, the participants are expected to be well-versed with the concepts and techniques used in pharmacogenomic research. The workshop also seeks to inspire them to start pharmacogenomics research at their respective institutes.

Pharmacogenomics is founded on the idea that one drug dose is not suitable for everyone