DNA-based medicine

NEWS

According to a major report, our technology is now capable of creating DNA-based medicine, ushering in a new age in medicine. In fact, matching DNA to people's genomic code, known as pharmacogenomics, can save people from drug ineffectiveness or death. An assessment of your genetic profile can rule out drugs effectiveness in your body, according to the British Pharmacological Society and the Royal College of Physicians. Moreover, we can expect DNA testing starting from next year in the NHS, where using either blood or saliva samples, the genetic analysis should cost around £100.

It only makes sense for this approach to be the new medical era ground since our DNA comprises all aspects of how our body works. As a matter of fact, 99.5% of people have minimum one change in their genome that will either make the wrong medicine ineffective or even hazardous. This is the observation of Prof Mark Caulfield, president-elect of the British Pharmacological Society.

Some drugs can be ineffective:

The genetic code gives us instructions on which drug can be functional or not. For example, codeine is worthless for more than five million people in the UK. To clarify, their genetic code does not code for the enzyme that breaks codeine into morphine. Another example, one in 500 people can lose their hearing if they take the antibiotic gentamicin because their genetic code put them at higher risk. Abacavir used to be fatal for 5-7% of people with HIV. Now, DNA tests are under check before prescribing the drug in order to eliminate the risk.

The beginning of DNA-based medicine:

According to a study, scientists have already developed the DNA-based medicine concept on 40 out of 100 frequently prescribed drugs in the United Kingdom. Indeed, the initial intent is to perform the tests only when a prescription is at hand for one of the 40 drugs. In the long run, the aim is to conduct genetic testing at birth, or as part of a routine check-up in the age of 50s.

Why DNA-based medicine?

Each individual differs one way or another from the rest, and this involves our DNA. The current 'one drug, one dose' model needs replacement with a more person-specific approach, where patients receive the right medicine at the right dose, securing an effective and safe medicines. In 2022, pharmacogenomics is set to play a crucial role in developing a new generation of modern healthcare, a word said the chairman of NHS England, Lord David Prior.