Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in serving science, has unveiled the TacroType Pharmacogenetic Test, a breakthrough tool designed to guide clinicians on dosing tacrolimus, a critical immunosuppressive drug for transplant patients.

 

For transplant recipients, getting the right dose quickly can be a matter of life or death. Too little tacrolimus risks organ rejection; too much increases chances of injury, infection, and other serious complications. But standard dosing often falls short—patients process the drug differently based on genetics, leading to repeated adjustments during the most vulnerable period after transplant.

 

The TacroType test provides actionable genetic insights to help clinicians understand how individual patients metabolize tacrolimus. Using a simple buccal swab, it identifies the patient’s CYP3A5 genotype, which influences drug metabolism and response.

 

“In transplant medicine, we often see significant variability in how patients respond to tacrolimus, particularly in the early post-transplant period,” said Keith Melancon, director of the George Washington Transplant Institute. 

 

“Having pharmacogenetic information upfront can help inform initial dosing decisions, reduce the need for repeated adjustments and support more consistent immunosuppressive management when patients are most vulnerable.”

 

Performed before transplant, TacroType gives clinicians the genetic information to make more informed early dosing decisions. This approach complements ongoing therapeutic drug monitoring, moving beyond conventional dosing to reduce the risk of adverse effects and support better long-term patient and graft outcomes.

 

“When patients receive a transplant, every day matters,” said Tina Liedtky, president of the transplant diagnostics business at Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The TacroType test gives clinicians valuable information from the start and supports more effective, personalized care for patients during a critical period.”

 

The one-time test uses rapid, qPCR-based CYP3A5 genotyping to deliver patient-specific data. By helping clinicians reach target tacrolimus levels more efficiently, it may reduce dose adjustments and improve outcomes.

 

“This new test reflects the growing role of pharmacogenetics in transplant medicine. It offers clinicians an additional data point to help manage immunosuppressive therapy to each patient’s unique needs,” Liedtky added.