Individual differences in drug response and metabolism are explained by both the genetics and epigenetics of individuals.
For example, smoking has been reported to affect the methylation of the CYP1A1 gene, which is involved in drug metabolism. In addition, the methylation of different genes in tumour processes affects the response to different chemotherapeutic agents. For example, MGMT methylation levels are related to a glioma patient’s response to chemotherapy.
In this way, the combination of genetic and epigenetic studies is a fundamental pillar of personalised medicine and allows better treatment of patients, avoiding ineffective or even toxic drugs.
Among the R&D projects of the EuroEspes Department of Medical Epigenetics is the study of the epigenetic changes that occur in the genes involved in drug metabolism and their association with the response to these treatments .
More information about our R&D projects >