The impact of genomics on anti-infectives drug discovery and development

Abstract

Genomics and pharmacogenomics are signalling the start of a new era for the pharmaceutical industry. The successful integration of these technologies into the drug discovery process provides the promise of increased efficiency for pharmaceutical companies, with higher confidence in the targets they pursue and smarter design of clinical trials. There are benefits too for the consumer, with the possibility of customized drug treatments leading to improved efficacy and fewer side-effects. This article reviews the impact of genomics at the various stages in the lifetime of a drug, through discovery, development and clinical use, focusing particularly on anti-infectives.