Pharmacogenetics

The goal of this prospective, randomized clinical trial is to learn whether pharmacogenomic (PGx)-guided comprehensive medication management delivered by pharmacists in community pharmacies will improve antidepressant treatment outcomes. The primary aim is to determine whether comprehensive medication management with review of PGx testing results improves depression symptoms, compared with usual care. Participants 18 years of age or older who have undergone PGx testing (e.g. through an independent biobanking study (Pitt+Me Discovery) who require initiation or adjustment of antidepressant therapy will be randomly assigned to receive either PGx-guided comprehensive medication management or usual care. Those who receive usual care will receive their PGx results at the end of the study. Researchers will compare the groups to assess whether PGx-guided care provided in partnership with community pharmacists and prescribers results in better depression and medication outcomes.

Investigate the feasibility and utility of implementing pharmacogenetic testing for adults (aged 18 and older) seeking care for mental illness in Manitoba.

Acetaminophen (APAP) is the most commonly used NSAIDS in clinic, and it is also a common cause of drug-induced liver injury (DILI). In 2012, the proportion of DILI caused by APAP in the United States was 51%, while in Asia, it was only 7.10%. Previously, a small cohort study in the United States screened for some of the susceptibility genes for DILI due to APAP by the Genome wide association study (GWAS) method. However, the genetic susceptibility loci based on the US cohort were not applicable to the Chinese population. Therefore, we make a study design include Chinese population who ingested APAP and divided them into case group and control group according to the occurrence of DILI. We hope to be able to find the root of differences at the genetic level and explore new pathogenic mechanisms.

This project will generate a prospective cohort of geriatric patients with polypharmacy which will be characterized for vulnerability profiles of adverse drug reactions.