Ep. 15 - Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: The Science of Drug-Gene Interactions with Michelle Beckwith

This episode features Michelle "Shelly" Beckwith, a genetics pioneer since the 1990s who worked on the Human Genome Project. She breaks down how pharmacogenetic testing helps optimize medication choices by analyzing how patients' genetic variations affect drug metabolism. The discussion covers testing methods, insurance challenges, and the real-world implementation of pharmacogenetics in clinical practice. Through her work with MedTrait, Shelly explains how understanding a patient's genetic profile can lead to more precise medication dosing and better outcomes.

https://www.medtrait.net/

Timestamps:

00:02:34 - 00:04:18: Michelle Beckwith's Professional Background

00:04:19 - 00:08:34: Different Types of Genetic Testing

00:08:34 - 00:12:34: Technical Details of Testing Methods

00:12:34 - 00:27:24: Drug Metabolism & Clinical Applications

00:27:24 - 00:35:42: Population Genetics & Healthcare Access

00:35:42 - 00:45:52: Regulatory Environment & Future Challenges

00:45:52 - 01:12:32: Implementation & Practical Applications

01:12:32 - 01:14:10: Closing Remarks

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Michelle Beckwith

shelly@ptclabs.com

Michelle Beckwith has been at the forefront of genetics since the 90s, contributing to projects like the Human Genome Project and co-founding a laboratory specializing in DNA Human Identity testing. Her work in clinical pharmacogenetics has evolved into the foundation of MedTrait, one of our key partners at Biography Health, providing genetic insights for personalized medicine.

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

drstanford@bhipm.com

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

Genotyping vs. Sequencing: What's the Difference?

In this episode, Dr. William Stanford, Dr. Yelena Bykhovskaya and Taylor Cu discuss various genetic testing methods. The conversation compares genotyping, exome sequencing, and whole genome sequencing, with an emphasis on whole genome sequencing, which provides the most comprehensive genetic information.

Timestamps:

00:03:22 - Discussion begins on what popular genetic testing companies use (genotyping)

00:05:09 - Explanation of how genotyping chips (microarrays) work

00:17:24 - Clarification on the difference between genotyping and sequencing

00:20:31 - Introduction of the book analogy to explain different genetic testing methods

00:23:32 - Discussion on the pros and cons of whole genome sequencing vs. exome sequencing

00:25:48 - Conclusion on why whole genome sequencing is becoming the preferred method

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Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

drstanford@bhipm.com

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine

Dr. Yelena Bykhovskaya

yelena@biographyhealth.com

Dr. Yelena Bykhovskaya is an accomplished scientist specializing in genetics and precision medicine. As the former Principal Scientist at Avellino Labs, she developed genetic tests for Mendelian and complex eye diseases using national and international collaborations. As the former Research Scientist at Cedars-Sinai, she made major advances in complex genetic eye diseases with groundbreaking genome-wide genetic analyses. Her earlier work in mitochondrial genetics led to major discoveries in maternally inherited deafness and other rare mitochondrial disorders. Holding a PhD in Biochemistry, Yelena has a publication record of widely cited forty-five articles in high-impact journals and delivered numerous oral and poster presentations at the national and international conferences, solidifying her leadership in genetic research.

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

In this episode, Dr. Yelena Bykhovskaya, Chief Scientific Officer at Biography Health, shares her expertise in genetics. We explore the importance of both polygenic and monogenic risk scores in patient care. The conversation underscores the value of combining cutting-edge genetic analysis with traditional clinical factors in the evolving field of precision medicine, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Resources Mentioned:

https://www.genomeweb.com/

https://www.insideprecisionmedicine.com/

Timestamps:

00:03:34 - LinkedIn sparks Bykhovskaya-Stanford collaboration

00:06:27 - Stanford highlights Bykhovskaya's genetic risk expertise

00:13:13 - Genetic risk vs. family history explained

00:18:18 - Human Genome Project revolutionizes genetic analysis

00:24:54 - Whole genome sequencing: Key to comprehensive risk assessment

00:28:49 - High polygenic scores rival monogenic variants in risk

00:33:33 - Early intervention: Combating genetic predispositions

00:38:09 - Integrated risk scores: Combining genetics and clinical factors

00:44:00 - Basic genetic knowledge empowers doctors

00:52:59 - Addressing European bias in genetic studies

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

How Doctors are Using Genetic Data to Transform Patient Care with Philip Bretsky MD PhD MPH FACP

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Philip Bretsky, a board-certified internist from Santa Monica with expertise in epidemiology and Alzheimer's research. Dr. Bretsky discusses how precision medicine is transforming healthcare by integrating genetics, biomarkers, and lifestyle factors. He explores the challenges and opportunities in implementing this approach, the evolving role of general practitioners, and how patients can advocate for personalized care. Dr. Bretsky also shares valuable resources for both health-conscious individuals and primary care providers interested in precision medicine. Join us for insights into the future of healthcare and strategies for better disease prevention and treatment.

Dr. Philip Bretsky's Contact Information:

Philip M. Bretsky MD PhD MPH FACP

1301 20th Street, Suite 230

Santa Monica, CA 90404

TEL: 310.828.4411

FAX: 310.828.2411

Facebook:@santamonicaprimarycare

Twitter / X: @santa_care

Instagram: @santa_monica_primary_care

Web: www.drbretsky.com & www.santamonicaprimarycare.com

My monthly newsletter: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/JtF9zzR

Timestamps:

03:18 – Dr. Philip Bretsky’s career path and personalized care.

09:26 – Shifting from treating to preventing disease.

12:02 – Gene-environment interactions and polygenic risk scores.

19:15 – Managing complex health problems as a general practitioner.

29:06 – Reflections on the Human Genome Project’s impact.

36:29 – Case study: Preventing coronary events.

44:17 – Advice for patients on advocating for personalized

Resources Mentioned:

Books:

• "Outlive" by Peter Attia
• "The Age of Scientific Wellness" by Leroy Hood
• "The Covenant of Water" by Abraham Verghese (fiction, but related to genetic conditions)

Podcasts/Newsletters:

• Eric Topol's substack and Twitter feed
• Peter Attia's podcast

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford...

Redefining the Healthcare Model: Insights from 20-Year Executive Lucy Janoyan

In this episode, we're joined by special guest Lucy Janoyan, Chief Strategy Officer at Biography Health. With over two decades of healthcare executive experience, Lucy explores the transition from reactive to proactive healthcare. She discusses the challenges facing primary care providers, the role of genetic testing in personalized medicine, and how Biography Health is working to empower both patients and doctors. Lucy shares insights on continuous health monitoring, patient engagement, and the future of healthcare, offering valuable perspectives for healthcare professionals and health-conscious individuals alike.

Timestamps:

00:02:09 - Introduction of guest Lucy Janoyan, Chief Strategy Officer at Biography Health

00:03:28 - Lucy discusses her background and connection with Dr. Stanford

00:06:55 - Discussion of challenges in current healthcare system and move towards precision medicine

00:16:27 - Discussion of issues with current reactive "sick care" system

00:25:52 - Discussion of barriers for physicians in providing preventive care

00:32:28 - Overview of how Biography Health platform works for providers

00:48:56 - Details on Biography Health's features and benefits for providers and patients

00:56:53 - Discussion of ongoing patient monitoring and updates through the platform

01:18:51 - Closing thoughts and how listeners can learn more about Biography Health

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine, enhancing his role as a leading expert in the field.

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

Gen Z Takes Action: The Preventive Health Shift

In this episode, we're joined by two younger guests for our Gen Z special featuring Eliana Stanford, Dr. Stanford's daughter, and Lexie Horizon, whose parents are fellow doctors and friends of Dr. Stanford, and who recently interned at Biography Health. This unique conversation explores why younger generations should care about and take action towards preventive healthcare.

Timestamps:

03:39:19 - Elena and Lexie introduce themselves and their backgrounds.

07:50:13 - Discussion on why younger generations are becoming interested in preventive healthcare.

11:37:23 - Dr. Stanford explains what whole genome sequencing is and how it differs from other genetic testing methods.

25:28:19 - Conversation about privacy concerns related to genetic data.

38:46:12 - Discussion on how precision medicine can benefit mental health treatment.

46:57:18 - Exploration of the challenges in making preventive care accessible and affordable.

54:35:01 - Dr. Stanford discusses the potential for precision medicine to improve healthcare in developing countries.

01:05:06 - Concluding remarks on the future of healthcare and the role of the younger generation in shaping it.

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine, enhancing his role as a leading expert in the field.

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

Taylor Can't Outrun His Genetics: Lipid Panel Reality Check

In this episode, Dr. Stanford and I uncover surprising truths from my advanced lipid panel. Despite my active lifestyle, the results reveal hidden risks for heart disease and diabetes. We explore how genetic factors and subtle imbalances can impact long-term health, and discuss targeted interventions that could make all the difference.

Timestamps:

00:02:39 - Overview of advanced lipid panel and family history

00:05:16 - Discussion of lipoprotein and genetic risk factors

00:08:31 - Analysis of lab results and inflammation markers

00:13:06 - Exploration of uric acid levels and gout risk

00:17:11 - Review of A1C levels and insulin resistance

00:23:33 - Realization of potential atherosclerosis at age 30

00:27:31 - Discussion on genetics vs. lifestyle choices

00:32:10 - Conversation about sugar alternatives and diet

00:38:17 - Projections of future health issues without intervention

00:49:14 - Recap of interventions and lifestyle changes

00:55:07 - Closing thoughts and importance of preventive care

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine, enhancing his role as a leading expert in the field.

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.

In this informative episode of the Precision Medicine Made Simple Podcast, we delve into the world of lipids with Dr. Stanford. Learn what lipids are and why they're crucial for your health, especially regarding heart disease prevention. We explore the differences between HDL and LDL cholesterol, discuss genetic factors influencing lipid levels, and explain why even vegetarians need to pay attention to their lipid profiles.

Dr. Stanford breaks down advanced lipid panels, explaining key markers like apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein(a). We address when to start checking your lipids and why family history is a powerful tool in assessing your risk. The episode also touches on exciting developments in lipid management, including potential new treatments for high lipoprotein(a) levels.

Timestamps:

03:12 - Explanation of what lipids are and their importance

06:02 - Discussion of atherosclerosis and heart disease risk

07:35 - Explanation of "good" vs "bad" cholesterol (HDL vs LDL)

11:28 - Discussion of vegetarian diets and cholesterol levels

13:16 - Introduction of familial hypercholesterolemia and lipoprotein(a)

16:21 - Lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition to high cholesterol

19:36 - Discussion of new medications and treatments in development

25:53 - Guidelines for lipid testing and personalized medicine approach

34:22 - Detailed explanation of advanced lipid panel markers

46:56 - Explanation of new drug development processes for lipid management

Dr. William Stanford MD PHD FACP

Dr. William Stanford is co-founder of Biography Health. He began his career as a mechanical and aerospace engineer at Texas Instruments in 1982 while also pursuing his interest in aviation as a flight instructor and commercial pilot. In 1991, he pivoted into biomedical science and subsequently completed the combined M.D./Ph.D. physician-scientist training program at the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1998 and an internal medicine residency at UCLA in 2001. He is board-certified in internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

A pioneer in the field of hospital medicine, Dr. Stanford founded and led a 25-physician group of private practice hospitalists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in 2002. After an extensive clinical career as the attending physician for over 100,000 patients, he was elected by his peers at Cedars-Sinai to be clinical chief of general internal medicine, serving in this capacity from 2017 to 2018. Inspired by recent advancements in biomedical science and medicine, Dr. Stanford completed professional certification through Stanford University’s Department of Genetics in 2018, further advancing his role as a true physician-scientist. Since 2018, he has provided genomic and precision medicine consultations through the Beverly Hills Institute for Precision Medicine, enhancing his role as a leading expert in the field.

Sponsored by: Biography Health

Biography Health, where healthcare meets personalization. With their DNAbled™ Blueprint, Biography Health empowers you with a health plan based on your unique DNA, aiming to prevent disease and extend your life. Take control of your health journey with a plan as unique as you. Visit BiographyHealth.com and start your personalized healthcare journey today.