SINGAPORE, May 29 (Bernama) -- A fast and cost-effective genetic test to determine the correct dosage of blood thinning drugs for the treatment of stroke, heart problems and deep vein thrombosis has been developed by researchers at the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN).
Using gold nanoprobes, this new technology offers personalised healthcare based on the genetic profile of the patients.
IBN Executive Director Professor Jackie Y Ying said that diseases caused by blood clots can be potentially fatal and that genetic testing can improve the treatment of such medical conditions.
"By combining our expertise in molecular diagnostics and nanotechnology, we have developed a new genetic test that can determine the appropriate drug dosage to be administered for each patient," she said in a statement here.
Blood thinning drugs or anticoagulant medication prevent clots from forming in the blood.
They are used to treat stroke, irregular heartbeat and deep vein thrombosis.
Warfarin is the most widely prescribed oral anticoagulant drug.
But the dosage for each individual is highly variable, and the wrong dosage can cause an adverse reaction. Doctors currently determine the right dosage by monitoring the patients' reactions and adjusting the dosage accordingly.
Studies have shown that the variability in warfarin dosage is linked to genes.
Knowing a patient's genetic profile can therefore help doctors to decide the correct dosage for the patient. This minimises side effects and improves treatment outcomes.
Original post:
IBN Scientists Develop New Technology For More Accurate Prescription To Treat Stroke