Researchers at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center have reported results of research with the Affymetrix DMET (drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters) chip, which screens for 1256 genetic variations in 170 genes involved in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion.

Genetic variability among patients in cancer clinical trials is not commonly taken into account, a factor that could skew dosage amounts and doom an otherwise promising new drug. A simpler, faster test could be readily incorporated into treatment trials.