Unlocking the Genetic Keys to Personalized GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes: A Pharmacogenetic Study Using UK Biobank Data

Terrmin

HT25

Beskrivning

Background
Why do some people see big improvements while others struggle with side effects from the same medication? This is especially relevant for GLP-1 receptor agonists—like liraglutide, exenatide, dulaglutide, and semaglutide—which help lower blood sugar, support weight loss, and may protect heart health in type 2 diabetes. Yet, responses vary, and genetic factors likely play a major role.

Aim
This project aims to identify the genetic variants—single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and polygenic risk scores (PRS)—that shape how well patients respond to GLP-1 receptor agonists. We will explore both immediate and long-term effects on blood sugar levels (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and cardiovascular risk. Uncovering these molecular clues could lead to more customized, effective treatments with fewer side effects.

Methods
• Data Source: We will use the UK Biobank, a large-scale resource with health and genetic data from around 500,000 participants.
• Study Population: Individuals with type 2 diabetes prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists.
• General Approach: We will combine genetic and clinical data to see whether certain SNPs or PRS correlate with better or worse outcomes—such as improved glycemic control, weight management, or fewer adverse events. Statistical models will help quantify these associations, adjusting for relevant factors like age, sex, and comorbidities.

Projektets upplägg kräver studentens närvaro på plats måndag till fredag under hela arbetsdagen. Detta för att säkerställa full delaktighet i det dagliga arbetet och möjliggöra ett nära samarbete med projektgruppen.

Huvudområde

Farmaceutisk vetenskap

Ämne

Farmakologi

Typ

Registerstudie

Företag

Läkemedelsverket

Ort/Plats

Uppsala

Handledarens namn

Jessica Mwinyi och Linda Wåhlström

Handledarens e-post

jessica.mwinyi@lakemedelsverket.se; linda.wahlstrom@lakemedelsverket.se

Institution

Institutionen för farmaceutisk biovetenskap

Program

Apotekarprogrammet

Kurs

Fördjupningsprojekt i farmaceutisk farmakologi 30 hp - 3FF293

Omfattning/hp

30hp

Hur många studenter kan antagas för detta projekt?

1

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