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

Abstract

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