The University of Toledo

Molecular Diagnostics Consultative Services

The department of Molecular Diagnostics at the University of Toledo Medical Center offers expert consultation from a subspecialty trained, board certified, clinical pathologist in the following areas: genetics, pharmacogenetics, malignant solid tumor diagnostics, molecular hematopathology, and molecular infectious diseases.  Official consultative reports regarding testing in the area of molecular pathology can be obtained for recommendations regarding specific types of testing in common and uncommon disease states.   With the advent of new molecular pharmacogenetic analysis, it has become increasingly more important to assess the complex interplay between our genes and drug therapy.  An example of personalized medicine using molecular genetics is with CYP450 2c19 sequence variants and the effectiveness of the drug Clopidogrel (Plavix).  Clopidogrel therapeutic efficacy has recently been shown to vary according to genetic variations in the enzyme CYP450 2c19 which metabolizes the drug.  Certain genetic variants in CYP450 2c19 result in little to no production of the active metabolite of clopidogrel resulting in lack of platelet inhibition and an increased risk of myocardial Infarction (MI) and death after cardiac catheterization and stent placement. Testing for these genetic variants is available for this condition and can guide physicians to the appropriate therapy choice.  This type of personalized medicine has also become particularly useful for patients with malignant solid tumors and hematopoietic malignancies.  For a formal consultation in Molecular Diagnostics please complete the Editable Molecular Diagnostics Consultation Request Form and Fax the form to the Attention of Sherry Bice at (419) 383-3066.  For further information please contact the department secretary at (419) 383-3752.