Advancing drug discovery using the power of the human genome

Human genetics plays an increasingly important role in drug development and population health. Here we review the history of human genetics in the context of accelerating the discovery of therapies, present examples of how human genetics evidence supports successful drug targets, and discuss how polygenic risk scores could be beneficial in various clinical settings. We highlight the value of direct-to-consumer platforms in the era of fast-paced big data biotechnology, and how diverse genetic and health data can benefit society. (c) 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Automated summary

Human genetics is increasingly important in drug development and population health. It accelerates therapy discovery, provides evidence for successful drug targets, and discusses the benefits of polygenic risk scores in various clinical settings. Direct-to-consumer platforms and diverse genetic health data can benefit society in the era of fast-paced big data biotechnology.