Implementation and implications for polygenic risk scores in healthcare

Human Genomics

Jeffrey J. Beck¹  John L. Slunecka¹  Casey T. Finnicum¹  Erik A. Ehli¹  Brandon N. Johnson¹  Jouke-Jan Hottenga²  René Pool²  Matthijs D. van der Zee²  Eco J. C. de Geus² 

[1] Avera Institute for Human Genetics, Avera McKennan & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD, USA;Department of Biological Psychology, Netherlands Twin Register, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands;

关键词: Polygenic risk score;    PRS;    Clinical genetics;    Genetic risk;    Risk stratification;    Public health;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s40246-021-00339-y

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

Increasing amounts of genetic data have led to the development of polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for a variety of diseases. These scores, built from the summary statistics of genome-wide association studies (GWASs), are able to stratify individuals based on their genetic risk of developing various common diseases and could potentially be used to optimize the use of screening and preventative treatments and improve personalized care for patients. Many challenges are yet to be overcome, including PRS validation, healthcare professional and patient education, and healthcare systems integration. Ethical challenges are also present in how this information is used and the current lack of diverse populations with PRSs available. In this review, we discuss the topics above and cover the nature of PRSs, visualization schemes, and how PRSs can be improved. With these tools on the horizon for multiple diseases, scientists, clinicians, health systems, regulatory bodies, and the public should discuss the uses, benefits, and potential risks of PRSs.

【 授权许可】

CC BY