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Genetic research

Our scientists are conducting genetic research to understand the basis of disease and to gain insight into why patients respond differently to medicines.

By discovering the function of specific genes in the body, and what role they play in disease, innovative, new medicines can be developed to both prevent and treat disease. Our scientists are working to identify genes which confer susceptibility to common diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, and where unmet medical need still remains. Studying disease processes at the genetic level will enable our scientists to identify associated biological pathways and so identify new drug targets.

We are also studying the relationship between genetic variability and a patient's response to medicine. This field of research is called pharmacogenetics and is being used to better understand what makes a patient respond to a particular treatment. This information will be used in both drug development at GSK and potentially in the clinic, so allowing patients to be treated with the medicine and the dose that is most likely to result in therapeutic benefit and minimal side effects.

The responsibility for identifying and resolving regulatory and healthcare policy considerations related to genetics is shared jointly amongst regulatory authorities, the pharmaceutical industry and policy groups. We refer to guidance regarding genetic research from both national and international groups.

Currently we stand as an industry leader in the science and technology of medical genetic research. By understanding how genetic factors influence health and disease, we are leading the way to the development of safer, more effective treatments for patients.

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