What is the Origin of Pharmacodynamic Genetic Markers?

This term is fundamental to the field of pharmacogenomics, originating from the observation of inter-individual variability in drug efficacy and toxicity that could not be explained by dosing alone. Identifying genetic variations in target proteins provided a mechanistic explanation for these differential responses. In endocrinology, this applies to genes for hormone receptors and downstream signaling proteins that mediate cellular response.

What is the Mechanism of Pharmacodynamic Genetic Markers?

Pharmacodynamic markers function by changing the drug's ability to bind to its target or altering the resulting cellular signal transduction efficiency. For example, a genetic variant in the androgen receptor gene can influence the sensitivity of a patient's tissues to testosterone replacement therapy. Screening for these markers allows the clinician to anticipate a patient's biological sensitivity and precisely tailor the dose to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while avoiding unnecessary side effects.

Pharmacodynamic Genetic Markers ∞ Area

Pharmacodynamic Genetic Markers

Meaning

Genetic variations, typically single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that influence the body’s response to a drug by altering the activity or expression of the drug’s molecular target, such as a receptor or an enzyme in a signaling cascade. These markers help predict the therapeutic effect and the likelihood of adverse drug reactions based on the drug’s action on the body. This is distinct from pharmacokinetic markers, which relate to the drug’s fate in the body.