Pharmacogenomics is the field of research that investigates how our genes influence the body’s response to medicines. By understanding these genetic differences, treatments can be tailored to each individual, reducing the risk of side effects and increasing the likelihood that the medicine will work as intended.
Genomic Medicine Sweden (GMS) is now investing in a national pharmacogenetic gene panel analysed with modern sequencing technology. The panel covers all genes where variations have been shown to be important for the choice of medicine and dosage. It has already been developed and validated at two of the country’s Genomic Medicine Centres.
“With a joint national solution for testing genes before drug treatment, we hope that more patients can receive the right dose and the right medicine straight away and this will in turn lead to more effective drug treatment in Sweden,” says Henrik Green, Professor of Forensic Sciences at Linköping University and Co-Chair of GMS Pharmacogenomics.
Thanks to a recently approved grant of nearly five million kronor from the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, all university hospitals in Sweden will be offered the opportunity to take part in the implementation of the genetic test. This is one of several strategic development projects from GMS supported by the Ministry.
“GMS has been planning this for many years. It is fantastic that it is finally becoming a reality,” says Mia Wadelius, Professor of Clinical Pharmacogenetics at Uppsala University and Co-Chair of GMS Pharmacogenomics.
Henrik Green. Photo: Emma Busk Winquist.
Mia Wadelius. Photo: Mikael Wallerstedt.
Read the full press release from the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs here (in Swedish).