The path from genomic insight to clinical applications landmark meeting
January 23rd, 2013 by ngedcThe National Genetics Education and Development Centre ran a meeting on:
Translational genomics: the path from genomic insight to clinical applications, licensed drugs and treatment decisions through case-examples
Date: 15th January 2012,
Venue: The Royal College of Physicians, London
This is what Dr Kirsten Patrick editorials editor of the British Medical Journal said:
“We are ALL going to have to learn about genomic medicine, whether we’re a clinician in a specialty where no gene-specific therapies seem to be on the horizon or at the forefront of delivering personalised medicine, and whether we’re medically trained or lay. Personalised medicine is the future……” Kirsten Patrick BMJ.
Background
Translational genomics refers to the exploitation of the information generated by research into the genetic make-up of the biological world for useful applications. In healthcare this involves translating genetic insights for the development of new healthcare interventions, most notably, (i) better drugs, (ii) improved disease prevention strategies, and (iii) better diagnostic methods.
The impact on practice today
Opinion is often divided about how far translational genomics has progressed. This meeting showcased important developments in translational genomics with a focus on drugs and interventions that have made successful transitions to the market or clinic. These included gene therapy, anticancer drugs, and treatment for cystic fibrosis aimed at the fundamental cellular dysfunction.
What was discussed
Translational genomics – final programme
There were several presentations by major drug companies illustrating how genomic advances are being exploited to produce better drugs.
These advances will be followed by many others in quick succession and therefore systems and strategies have to be put in place to optimise the benefits to be derived for NHS patients and society at large. A presentation by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence talked about how novel technologies are assessed so that reliable guidance can be provided on which medicines represent the best value for money for the NHS.
