Pharmacogenomics Driving Precision Cancer Medicine

Abstract

Genetically-driven variations in the proteins associated with drug action and adverse effects can lead to a significant influence on cancer therapy. Cancer cells can accumulate a plethora of somatic mutations, beyond any existing germline variants, during their progression from normalcy to malignancy. The narrow therapeutic index that characterises cancer drugs and the life-threatening failure of therapy all point to the importance of considering the inclusion of pharmacogenomics when treating cancers. This narrative review discusses the application, merits and challenges of pharmacogenomics knowledge using a few representative examples. The adoption of a properly considered pharmacogenomic program during cancer treatments can be life-saving and rewarding.