What does pharmacogenomics study?

Pharmacogenomics studies how genes affect an individual's response to drugs, focusing on the interaction between an individual's genetic makeup and their response to pharmacological treatments. This field of research aims to understand variability in drug efficacy and toxicity among different individuals, which can lead to more personalized medicine approaches. By determining which genetic variations predict a better or worse response to certain medications, healthcare providers can tailor treatments to maximize efficacy and minimize adverse effects. This precision in medication administration represents a significant advancement in healthcare, aligning treatment strategies with the unique genetic profiles of patients.

In this context, the other options pertain to different areas of study. The impact of exercise on genetics relates more to physical fitness and health outcomes rather than drug interactions. Genetic modification of crops focuses on agricultural biotechnology aimed at improving food production and sustainability but does not involve drug response. The role of genetics in social behavior examines how genetic influences may affect social interactions and behavior, which is separate from pharmacological responses. Each of these areas is important in its own right, but they do not encompass the specific focus of pharmacogenomics.