What is the main purpose of pharmacogenomic research?

The main purpose of pharmacogenomic research is to evaluate the association between individual genotypes and drug safety and efficacy. This field focuses on understanding how genetic variations among individuals can affect their responses to medications, including how well a drug works and what side effects it may cause. By studying these genetic differences, researchers aim to tailor drug therapies to individuals, leading to more effective and safer medication regimens.

For instance, certain genetic markers can indicate whether a patient is likely to benefit from a particular drug or if they are at risk for adverse effects. This personalized approach enhances the practice of medicine, shifting away from a "one size fits all" strategy toward more individualized treatment plans based on a patient's genetic profile.

In contrast, evaluating how different racial and ethnic groups respond to drugs, although related to pharmacogenomics, lacks the specific focus on individual genotypes and is more about population-level differences rather than personalized medicine. Examining the genomes of infectious agents' impact on antibiotics pertains more to microbiology and infectious diseases rather than the individual's genetic response to drugs. Lastly, the assessment of whether genetic testing can reduce pharmaceutical costs is an important consideration in health economics but does not capture the primary goal of pharmacogenomics, which is centered on optimizing drug safety and efficacy