Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is an application of precision medicine that can be used
to predict how an individual will respond to a drug based on his or her
genetics. Every drug does not work for every patient, and some patients
have adverse reactions to certain drugs. The use of pharmacogenetics allows
clinicians to understand how a patient metabolizes drugs in order to prescribe
the right medication at the right dose.
Hoag Pharmacogenetics Pilot Study
Pharmacogenetics is an emerging application within the field of Applied
Genomic Technologies. Hoag Family Cancer Institute is bringing this new
advancement to patients through a pilot study that incorporates pharmacogenetics
into cancer treatment. Patients enrolled in the study provide a buccal
swab, or saliva sample, to collect their DNA. The sample is then sent
to a laboratory for genetic testing and analysis of the patient’s
DNA in relation to pharmacologic compounds to understand how the patient
metabolizes and responds to drugs. Doctors can then apply this information
when selecting anti-cancer drugs so that the patient is prescribed a drug
at the right dose that will produce the best response. The approach minimizes
unwanted side effects and hospital visits due to adverse drug reactions.
Applied Genomics at Hoag
Hoag Family Cancer Institute continually works to provide the very best
care for our patients. Hoag’s Center for Applied Genomic Technologies
and its team of highly-regarded industry experts are a testament to that.
No other hospital in Orange County provides this level of personalized
cancer care.
Hoag’s Center for Applied Genomic Technologies team is here to support
our oncology physicians and partners. If you are interested in access
to this care, we encourage you to speak with your physician. If deemed
appropriate, your oncologist, or referring physician, will work directly
with Hoag's Applied Genomics team to review your case and discuss
next steps.