The UK Pharmacogenetics and Stratified Medicine Network

Welcome the UK Pharmacogenetics and Stratified Medicine Network

Stratifying (grouping) patients based on their genetic profile, response to a particular drug, or the molecular basis of their disease has launched a stratified medicine approach to drug delivery. This benefits the patient as they receive a more precise drug treatment, personalised at the start of their treatment, at the optimum dose and in the correct combination with other medications, and so delivers improved healthcare outcomes. It raises safety standards by predicting and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Since 6% of hospital admissions are a result of ADRs a stratified medicine approach has the potential not only to protect patients but to make significant savings for the NHS.

The UK Pharmacogenetics and Stratified Medicine Network is a unique organisation that brings together clinicians to recognise the disease, academic scientists research the genetic /molecular basis of disease, large pharma develop new drugs, patients participate by providing their samples and data, clinical trials staff evaluate the response of patients to the drug, bioinformatics experts stratify/group patients, SME’s develop diagnostic evidence tests, and regulators evaluate the suitability of the drug. No other organisation reaches, and connects, such a diverse group of professionals essential to supporting NHS delivery of stratified medicine to patients.

The network is chaired by Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed and is supported by a high profile steering committee with representatives from all the key sectors involved in stratified medicine. Innovate UK funds the network through the Knowledge Transfer Network.

Our website is an invaluable resource providing a “one stop shop” for all the latest news, articles, announces funding opportunities, educational opportunities and events of interest. Members have the opportunity to distribute information about their expertise and activities to the wider community through our unique collaborators database. Colleagues then search the database to discover potential research partners. The website attracts worldwide attention with visitors browsing the site for an average of 15 minutes.

Leading experts and patient representatives are invited to come together in focused workshops to debate topical issues and then offer solutions to the challenges that face delivery of stratified medicine. Our open meetings highlight the latest developments in the field and provide opportunities for cross disciplinary interactions and formation of research partnerships. The network is free to join and is an invaluable resource for those working to deliver stratified medicine.