Impact of genetic variations on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of medicines and the future of drug therapy

摘要

Genetic variations between individuals usually leads to differences in the drug response asit could affect both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes. An example ofmutation of genes that affect drug targets (pharmacodynamic) is VKORC1 gene that codesfor active sites of the enzyme vitamin K epoxide reductase that is responsible foractivation vitamin K. A famous example of mutation affecting pharmacodynamic propertiesof medicine is the anticancer agent irinotecan. Bone marrow suppression is a well knownside effect for this medicine. In many cases, this adverse drug reaction appears to be verysevere compared to the majority of the individuals, and that is possibly due to a mutation ofa gene called UDP-GT 1A1.Identifying exact genes could be helpful in better targeting ofmedicines in the future, Pharmacogenetic testing and individualized medicine widens thewindow of therapy for better treatment approaches, it helps us to reduce both rate oftoxicity and the dose of the drug, so it saves both lives and economically efficient that iswhy it worth funding by drug authorities in order for improving better and economicallyefficient clinical practice in the future.