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