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Genomic medicine can be defined as the use of genotypic analysis
(DNA testing) to enhance the quality of medical care including presymptomatic identification of predisposition to disease, preventive intervention, selection of pharamacotherapy, and individual design of medical care based on genotype. The progress of the human genome project and research in molecular medicine have made genomic medicine an important strategy.Genotype can be deduced by the analysis of protein(eg.Hemoglobin or alpha-1-antitrypsin), RNA, or DNA, but analysis of DNA is the usual method.Though there are no new concepts or priciples involved, genomic medicine will change the way medicine is practiced, particularly in regard to intervention for common diseases.Genotypic analysis is standard practice for diseases in which a single gene plays a prominent role, but the role of genetic testing in complex traits- where multiple genes and non-genetic factors are implicated-is less established. Genotypic information has two broad applications: first to modify the medical care provided to the individual; and second, to make possible reproductive counselling to couples who wish to have children.It is important to distinguish those genotypic results that provide potential for benefit and/or intervention (eg.hemochromatosis) as compared to those situations where no clear intervention is available(eg.Alzheimer's or Huntington's disease), but most disorders fall in an intermediate category where opportunity for treatment or prevention is significant but limited. |
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Last revised on:17-06-1999
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