CardioDx has been working with leading cardiologists to study how genomic testing could address significant clinical needs in congestive heart failure (HF).
Identifying responders and non-responders to HF therapies could lead to improved quality of care and better allocation of medical resources. Given the existence of genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding adrenergic receptors, we began studies in our heart failure program to address the critical question of whether genetic variations explain differences in individual response to beta-blocker therapy. Although a drug-specific interaction between genotype and outcome may exist with bucindolol, a similar effect does not appear to occur with metoprolol or carvedilol.1
The complexities of HF and varied responses to HF polypharmacy (some of which have a genetic origin) warrant future prospective studies to dissect the impact of multiple genes and pathways on treatment response in HF. There is reason to believe that genomics can be successfully applied to the management of HF and CardioDx is committed to studying approaches that may enhance understanding of patient progression and optimal care.
- Sehnert, AJ, Kraus, W, et al. Lack of Association Between Adrenergic Receptor Genotypes and Survival in Heart Failure Patients Treated With Carvedilol or Metoprolol. JACC. Aug 19 2008:52(8);644-651.
