Dr. Marios Phylactides, a distinguished researcher from The Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, has made significant contributions to the European Joint Programme on Rare Diseases (EJP RD) “Innovative Therapies and Personalized Medicine for Rare Disease” Massive Open Online Course (MOOC). His involvement comprisesa presentation on pharmacogenomics and toxgnostics, crucial in advancing personalized medicine for rare diseases.

On pharmacogenomics, Dr. Phylactides explores the relationship between genetic variations and drug responses. He distinguishes between pharmacogenomics, which examines the entire genome’s influence on drug responses, and pharmacogenetics, which focuses on individual or small groups of genes.

Dr. Phylactides highlights how this field can help tailor treatments based on individuals’ genetic and phenotypic profiles, particularly important for rare diseases where standard treatments may be less effective.

On toxgnostics, Dr. Phylactides introduces this emerging field that focuses on identifying genetic variants to predict toxic side effects from treatments.

Dr. Phylactides explains how toxgnostics complements pharmacogenomics by offering a more focused approach to predicting and preventing drug-induced toxicity, particularly relevant for rare disease patients who may be more susceptible to adverse effects.

Through his contribution, Dr. Phylactides provides valuable insights into how pharmacogenomics and toxgnostics shape personalized medicine for rare diseases. His work highlights the potential of these fields to improve patient outcomes and advance the development of safer, more effective treatments, offering key knowledge for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students.