ADR Research

Discovery of novel biomarkers for adverse drug reactions
Despite extensive research approximately 25% of all drug side effects in humans are not predicted by either preclinical safety testing or clinical trials. These so called adverse drug reactions result in delay or cancellation of potentially effective treatment, as well as in economic loss.

This project studies the metabolic effects of eight drugs (among which are paracetamol and diclofenac ) with known side effects in the liver. By looking into the mechanics on a level ranging from the molecule to the patient, the researchers in this project aim to find biomarkers and develop tools for the early prediction of side effects of drugs. One of the breakthroughs in the project is the discovery that a person's genetic profile appears to be one of the mechanics that have an influence on the resistance to adverse drug reactions. The ability to identify adverse effects in an early stage will prevent much discomfort in patients and economic loss.

Fast facts
Full project title: Towards novel translational safety biomarkers for adverse drug toxicity
Start date: October 2007
End date: August 2012
Goal: Develop novel in vitro predictive screening tools and in vivo translational models and biomarkers to improve ADR hazard identification
Principal investigator: Nico Vermeulen
Project size: 12 FTE's
Partners: Abbott, BioDetection Systems BV, BioFocus DPI, Leiden University, MSD, NOTOX BV, PamGene, Pepscan Presto BV, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, University of Groningen, Utrecht University, VU University Amsterdam