Predictive genetics

Genetics is the science that studies the genes. The most significant event in this field of research is the information about decryption of the human genome. It made identification of those areas of the human body which had previously been unknown possible. Better knowledge of the genome may show us the beginning of a disease that is primarily caused by incorrect function of a protein which is more easily caused by a mutation in single genes.

The creation of a brand new science – predictive genetics – was a natural result of these activities. The objective of this immensly dynamic field, which concentrates all current knowledge in genetics, is the early revealing of individual genetic predispositions to serious diseases. Thanks to this, we can today – with regard to evaluation of the family history and analysis of the external effects of the environment we live in – effectively reduce the risks of diseaes and therefore avoid such diseases. Diseases rarely have only one cause. However, thanks to predictive genetics, the prophylaxis of diseases such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and Alzheimer disease is very advanced. In addition, our knowledge of genetic causes of disease significantly speeds up a determination of a diagnosis and therapy in patients who suffer from this disease. For example, understanding the effects of genes on the effects of drugs and their side effects make preparation of the exact individualized pharmacological therapy plan possible.

Predictive genetics also affects some other medical topics. Some genetic predispositions increase predisposition for a development of hereditary and civilization diseases.

Based on the knowledge of the origin and development of diseaeses, the predictive genetic testing makes it possible to adopt measures or provides particular recommendations which may help to avoid the risk factors. The treatment is individualized with regard to the results of the predictive genetic analysis. Each of us has unique information in the genes which requires a proposal for individual therapy or preventive strategies. The therapy is effective and safe using this approach. Predictive genetics also enables us to understand the process of growing and hence to improve the quality of life of elderly people.

Genetic diagnosis
Genetic diagnosis refers to an analysis of genes that is performed to identify specific genetic traits of a person. A very small amount of biological material is needed for this test (e.g., saliva from buccal mucosa). The result identifies hereditary diseaes before they are manifested. Through evaluation of the environmental effects on the specific genetic traits, the genetic analysis helps us to clarify which particular factors take part in an increase of the risk of the disease.

Therefore, genetic diagnosis evaluates our individual predispositions for the development of certain diseases during our lifetime, and subsequently it helps us to prepare the strategy for prevention of diseases and to determine individualized therapy.

Very specific requirements and high costs were, until recently, the problem in the determination of a genetic diagnosis. However, research and development have made great progress in recent months, which enables us to bring this unique complex output of predictive genetics to the general population.