Research

PTRG currently conducts pharmacogenetic, pharmacoepidemiological and population genetics research throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Pharmacogenetics is a relatively new area of research that studies responses to drugs based on genetic variations. For example, a drug could be effective for one person and toxic for another based on the way it is metabolized in the body. A person who metabolizes a drug too quickly may require a higher dose in order for it to be effective. However, a person who metabolizes a drug too slowly will have a higher, more toxic level of the drug in their system, which may cause them to have a drug-related adverse reaction.

Currently, effective drug doses are determined through the trial and error approach, in which a physician will prescribe the lowest standard dose of a drug, monitor the patient's response to it and then gradually increase the dose until it become effective.

Pharmacogenetics can lead to more effective prescribing by determining what drug dose is most appropriate for an individual based on their genetic profile. Essentially it helps determine the right drug for the right person at the right dose.

Pharmacoepidemiology studies the utilization and effects of a drug on a particular population. This type of research can contribute to pharmacogenetics by helping to explain variations in drug response within a population that has known mutations in their genetic profile. Therefore, this can make it easier to pinpoint genetic similarities that influence the effectiveness of a drug.

Founder Population

The population on the island of Newfoundland is particularly beneficial for conducting pharmacogenetic and pharmacoepidemiological research because, due to mutations in genetic profile, individuals can be more susceptible to certain conditions.

Today's Newfoundland population is made up of descendants from limited founder populations that settled here in the 1700s. Since many rural communities were geographically isolated with limited in-migration, this has lead to an increase in genetic disorders that lead to certain diseases.

For example, the average annual incidence rate of juvenile type 1 diabetes mellitus (IDDM) in the province is 36 per 100,000. This is one of the highest known rates of the condition, far greater than the incidence reported for admixed populations in the U.S. (7 to 15 per 100,000 annually).

Other diseases such as colorectal cancer and psoriatic arthritis are also noted as having a higher incidence in Newfoundland and Labrador than elsewhere. Therefore, research conducted here can shed light on the genetic basis for disease and, subsequently, the best treatment options.