Substantial concerns about conflicts of interest as both a threat to quality research as well as to the well being of research subjects have abounded for decades. The patients couldn't afford to pay costs out of their own pocket. A Cannavan's Disease Support Group has been instrumental in helping a company develop treatment by raising research funds as well as supplying researchers with willing research participants. Knowing if a person will respond to a drug in ways that are safe and effective for that individual, will enable patients to avoid medications that are dangerous or ineffective for them. This is not to say that genes are the only key to cures.
Environment plays a role, too.
Dietary and lifestyle behaviors are likely to still affect the safety and efficacy of medicines for particular individuals. As well, variation in drug response is not limited to micro polymorphisms. However, scientists are poised to uncover why the metabolism of particular individuals absorbs and dispels pharmaceuticals in a particular manner. A 42 year old man of Scandinavian descent presents to his physician with a general feeling of malaise. Five years previously he was diagnosed with high serum cholesterol, which he attempted to control with a regimen of exercise and dietary regulation, with no success.