Pioneering Precision: Kira Dineen on Genetics’ Role in Tailored Therapies

Summary In this episode, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Na-Ri Oh , and guest Kira Dineen discuss the intersection of genomics and healthcare. They explore the concept of personalized medicine and how advancements in genomics are revolutionizing healthcare. Kira shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her DNA Today podcast. The conversation delves into the technology behind personalized medicine and the challenges of building comprehensive genetic databases. The ethical considerations of genomics, including access to information and the potential misuse of genetic data, are also explored. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for ethical frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements in genomics. The conversation explores the controversial topic of gene editing, particularly the use of CRISPR technology. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations and the choice of genetic targets for editing. They also touch on the accessibility and long-term consequences of CRISPR. The conversation then shifts to the cost of treatment and the role of genetic testing in drug development. The potential of AI in genetic research is explored, as well as the future of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with a discussion on professional motivation and the importance of networking. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kira Dineen and the Intersection of Genomics and Healthcare 02:07 Genomics and Personalized Medicine 04:13 Kira Dineen's Personal Journey and the DNA Today Podcast 08:08 The Trend Towards Personalized Medicine in Biopharma 10:11 The Technology Behind Personalized Medicine 12:39 Building Databases and Overcoming Barriers 15:18 Ethical Considerations in Genomics 20:39 Ethics and the Use of Genetic Information 24:06 Ethics Keeping Pace with Technological Advances 25:44 Managing Ethical Considerations in Genetic Research 27:21 Controversial Gene Editing 28:18 Choosing Genetic Targets 29:10 Ethical Considerations 29:44 Accessibility of CRISPR 30:13 Long-Term Consequences of CRISPR 32:51 Healthcare Equity and Cost of Treatment 34:25 Cost of Genomic Sequencing 35:22 Genetic Testing and Drug Development 38:13 Role of Genetic Testing in Clinical Trials 42:20 AI in Genetic Research 46:34 Future of Personalized Medicine 49:56 Professional Motivation and Networking Resources: Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM (LInkedIn, Twitter) DNAtoday.com Breath from Salt (DNA Today author interview Episode #147) Maury Povich interview on DNA Today  Patient Empowerment Program: A Rare Disease Podcast