How Can Understanding Genetic Interactions Improve Therapeutic Strategies?
A deep understanding of genetic interactions can lead to the development of more effective therapeutic strategies. Targeted therapies, such as those used in cancer treatment, often aim to disrupt specific genetic interactions that drive disease. For example, PARP inhibitors are used to target cancer cells with BRCA1/2 mutations by exploiting synthetic lethality, a concept based on genetic interactions. Personalized medicine approaches also rely on understanding an individual's unique genetic interactions to tailor treatments that maximize efficacy and minimize adverse effects.