Genomics and the Healthcare Revolution

Genomics and the Healthcare Revolution.

“Professor Patrick Tan, from the Genome Institute of Singapore and the Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy at Duke-NUS Medical School, began the session by describing how he has used exome sequencing to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying various cancers endemic to Asia.

These studies have led to the identification of new genes and pathways implicated in tumorigenesis. For instance, Tan showed that the cell adhesion and chromatin modification pathways contribute to gastric cancer development. Such information may enable the identification of new drug targets and increase treatment options for patients.

Exome sequencing data may also show how existing drugs may be applied to new indications. Tan’s work has also revealed that peripheral T cell and NK/T cell lymphoma may be treated with a drug already in use for rheumatoid arthritis, and patients with cholangiocarcinoma may respond to therapeutic strategies already in use for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.”

http://www.bio-itworld.com/2013/6/10/genomics-healthcare-revolution.html