ABSTRACT
In the past fi fty years, DNA sequencing, molecular genetic analysis, human genetic testing, and many other DNA-based techniques have led to the rise of precision medicine-the customization of medical treatment based on an individual patient’s genetics or other molecular or cellular analysis-providing even more detailed and specifi c information to treat patients. We are just on the precipice of this new medical revolution, but it has already made signifi cant inroads to medical practice. The FDA now recommends genetic testing to assist physicians in establishing dosage for Warfarin, a blood thinning drug. In the wake of Angelina Jolie’s public double mastectomy, women are increasingly being tested for abnormalities in the so-called “breast cancer” genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) and making proactive decisions to maintain their health before the disease appears. In his 2015 State of the Union, President Obama announced the creation of the Precision Medicine Initiative. Additional Federal funding is providing the research support to ensure that we capitalize on the potential benefi ts of molecular medicine.
