Simran Maggo

Position:

Assistant Professor

Pronouns:

He/Him

Location:

Health Professions Building, Room 139

Email: simran.maggo@berxwedan.net

Educational History:

MSc, Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Otago, New Zealand., PhD, Pharmacology, University of Otago, New Zealand.

Fields of Expertise:

Pharmacology & Toxicology
Pharmacogenomics
Bioinformatics

Professional Highlights:

During my Postdoctoral fellowship I designed a study called Understanding Drug Reactions Using Genomic Sequencing (UDRUGS). Using this research study, I was able to provide research-grade pharmacogenetic testing to health-professionals in New Zealand. This testing has proven invaluable to many, especially mental health practitioners who have been able to modify or choose alternative medication for their patients struggling with antidepressant response or-associated side-effects. I have worked closely with multiple pharmacists, particularly mental health pharmacists. The relationship and pharmacogenetic testing provided through the UDRUGS study is highlighted in my publication history, however I provide two specific examples below.

http://www.pharmacytoday.co.nz/article/print-archive/genetic-variants-implicated-adverse-effects-antidepressants
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6764017/

Establishing a Biobank:
I played a major role in establishing an institutional wide biobank; PATHMED biobank at the University of Otago, Christchurch. The goals of this biobank are to (with consent) store human tissue samples for future research including for genomics. This biobank is approved by the NZ national ethics committee and is one of its kind with respect to storing tissue samples from patients who have been taking part in various research studies at the Christchurch campus. Once the study is completed, the Biobank seeks permission via consent to store the samples long-term for future research.

Research:

My research journey in pharmacogenomics is driven by the desire to contribute to personalized medicine and enhance patient care.

Pharmacogenomics explores the relationship between an individual’s genetic makeup and their response to medications. It aims to personalize drug therapy based on genetic information, enhancing both safety and efficacy of treatments. In the context of psychiatric pharmacogenomics, understanding genetic variations can help predict individual responses to psychotropic medications, enabling personalized treatment plans and eliminating the “trial and error” phase during dose optimization.

I would like to address the challenges that lie ahead for pharmacogenomics, with a specific interest in psychiatric pharmacogenomics. The complex nature of psychiatric disorders, influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors, makes it difficult to establish precise genotype-phenotype correlations. While the cost of genetic testing is currently on a downward trend, limited availability of robust evidence for certain medications poses barriers to the development of clinical guidelines and implementation. Overcoming these challenges requires continued research, improved data sharing, and advancements in technology to harness the full potential of pharmacogenomics in psychiatric care. I am excited about the potential of long-read sequencing in advancing this field and the prospect of promoting equitable pharmacogenomics research. With a focus on psychiatric pharmacogenomics and the utilization of cutting-edge technologies, I am committed to making meaningful contributions to the field and fostering a more inclusive understanding of pharmacogenomics for the benefit of all individuals.

Research publications to date: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/simran.maggo.1/bibliography/public/

Personal Highlights:

I am blessed with a beautiful family including two children. I look forward to exploring the Shenandoah valley area with them.