Towards personalized medicine – the role of methotrexate
2011
The Role of Methotrexate in Personalized Medicine
Commentary
Author Information
Author(s): Naik Sita
Primary Institution: Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Science
Hypothesis
Can genetic variations predict the efficacy and toxicity of methotrexate in patients?
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for robust genetic studies to better predict methotrexate responses in Indian patients.
Supporting Evidence
- More than half a century ago, methotrexate was introduced for treating children with leukemia.
- MTX is the most widely used drug for rheumatoid arthritis but has significant side effects.
- Genetic variations can affect how well methotrexate works and its side effects.
- Current studies show inconsistent results due to small sample sizes and varying genetic backgrounds.
Takeaway
Doctors want to find out how people's genes affect how well a medicine works for them, especially for a drug called methotrexate.
Limitations
Inadequate sample sizes and variable penetrance of genetic variants limit the predictive power of genetic markers.
Participant Demographics
Healthy Indian subjects were studied for genetic variations.
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