Translating pharmacogenomics discoveries into clinical practice: the role of curated databases.

Pharmacogenomics-related genotype information is growing at a supra-linear rate, and phenotype-related information, as determined by computer simulations, in vitro experiments and clinical studies, is also growing. Even when phenotypic information is confirmed via clinical research, numerous barriers exist in translating these discoveries into clinical practice. We consider two of them here: the uncertainty regarding the practical relevance of research observations, and translation of significant research findings into clinical practice and research through electronic information access. This form of access is critical because even leading clinical pharmacologists cannot fully retain mentally today’s large volume of drug-related information.