Clinical Pharmacogenetics and Osteoporosis

A woman is looking on as a man pipettes in a pharmacogenomic research instrument.

Genetic and environmental factors play important roles for the development of osteoporosis and other diseases, but also for how individuals respond to drug treatment. Starting with the question why the incidence of osteoporosis is so very high in Sweden, we are investigating genetic - and environmental risk factors for this disease. In our pharmacogentic research programs, we look for genetic differences between individual that can explain variable responses to pharmaceutical drug treatments, with the goal to enable personalized drug dosage.

Description of our research

Our research group has two separate research focuses – one group focuses on osteoporosis and another focuses on clinical pharmacogenetics.

Each year some 14 000 Swedes suffer from hip fracture, the most serious consequence of osteoporosis. Through epidemiological studies we have shown that a high intake of Vitamin A correlates with an increased risk of osteoporosis. We are now trying to identify additional risk factors, and are studying the molecular mechanisms responsible for the bone toxicity of Vitamin A.

Finding the right medication and optimal dose involves a balance to maximise the positive effects and minimise the negative consequences of treatment – the adverse effects. Sometimes genetic factors play a crucial role in why some people experience severe adverse effects. The goal of our research is to tailor treatment to the patient through precision medicine.

Our research focuses

Clinical Pharmacogenetics

We are trying to find answers to why different people react so differently to the same medicine.

Osteoporosis

We are trying to find answers to why the prevalence of osteoporosis fractures in Sweden and Norway is the highest in the world.

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