personalised medicine

• genome projects

  • eg human genome project can be used to develop genomic medicine
• human genome project

  • sequencing of entire human genome
  • information stored in databases-genes which code for certain proteins can be found and analysed
  • allows development of drugs which target specific proteins eg drugs act as enzyme inhibitors
• human genome project can help determine individuals risk of developing disease

  • this can be done via genetic screening and preventative measures can be taken
  • doctors can use an individuals genome to work out how well they might respond to specific treatments
• social, moral and ethical issues

  • increased research costs-only wealthier people have access
  • insurance companies and employers may use personalised medical data to unfairly discriminate against individuals
  • some patients may be refused personalised medicine if not predicted to be that effective