Two people can take the same dose of the same medicine and have very different results. One may improve, while the other gets little benefit or develops serious side effects. Part of the explanation often lies in their genes.

Pharmacogenomics uses genetic information to predict how someone may respond to certain medicines. Some genes make proteins that help the body process medicines. Others influence how medicines act. Variants in these genes can change how well a treatment works or the risk of side effects.

Genes are only part of the picture. Age, kidney and liver function, other medicines and the condition being treated can all affect a person’s response. Allergic reactions also have different causes.

Almost everyone carries a relevant variant. An analysis of nearly 500,000 UK Biobank participants found that 99.5% were predicted to have an unusual response to at least one drug because of variants in 14 well-studied genes. Almost one-quarter had already been prescribed a medicine affected by one of those genes.

The immediate value of this information is narrower than that figure might suggest. A variant becomes useful when someone is taking, or may be prescribed, a relevant medicine and there is good evidence about what a doctor should do differently.

In those circumstances, testing may prevent harmful reactions or ineffective treatment. Genetic differences account for only a proportion of adverse drug reactions, which can range from nausea to life-threatening bleeding. A 2022 study of one month’s adult medical admissions at a Liverpool NHS trust found that an adverse reaction caused or contributed to 16.5% of admissions.

The researchers estimated that such admissions could cost NHS England £2.21 billion a year. This was extrapolated from one NHS trust over a single month, so it is an estimate rather than a national count.

Older people taking several medicines face a particularly high risk of adverse reactions. As the population ages, reducing avoidable harm will become increasingly important.

There is evidence that testing can make prescribing safer. A trial involving 6,944 patients in seven European countries tested variants in 12 genes and gave prescribers drug-specific advice.

Among patients with a result that could affect their treatment, clinically relevant adverse reactions occurred within 12 weeks in 21% of those whose care was guided by the test, compared with 27.7% of those receiving standard care.

Testing is already used for selected medicines. An NHS resource updated in 2025 lists five drug-gene pairs for which testing occurs relatively routinely in England. These include testing the DPYD gene before certain chemotherapy drugs, because some variants reduce the body’s ability to break them down. Clinicians also test the immune-system gene HLA-B before prescribing the HIV medicine abacavir, because one variant increases the risk of a serious hypersensitivity reaction.

Wider use is being explored through an NHS England-funded study examining how a national pharmacogenomic testing service could work. The project is also investigating how results and prescribing advice could be incorporated into clinical computer systems.

The Netherlands offers a useful comparison. Advice from the Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group is incorporated into the national medicines database used by prescribers and pharmacists. This makes guidance available at the point of care when a patient’s genetic result is known. Access to testing remains a separate issue.

How could a genetic test change treatment?

Consider someone leaving hospital after a heart attack. They may be prescribed clopidogrel to prevent blood clots, a statin to lower cholesterol and omeprazole to protect their stomach.

Some people have CYP2C19 variants that reduce their ability to activate clopidogrel. In certain heart conditions, clinical guidance recommends considering another antiplatelet medicine for people with particular results.

Other variants can influence the risk of muscle symptoms from some statins. CYP2C19 also affects levels of omeprazole, which in turn affects how useful it is in preventing stomach problems caused by other medications.

Each medicine would still require a separate clinical assessment. A result could give the prescriber additional evidence when choosing a drug or dose.

The same caution applies to antidepressants. CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 variants can influence levels of some antidepressants, and guidelines explain how results may inform prescribing. A result may help a clinician choose a starting dose or consider an alternative. Genes explain only part of someone’s response to treatment.

A sample for testing can come from blood or a cheek swab. Because inherited variants do not change, the result could be stored in a medical record for a patient’s lifetime, and consulted when other medicines are prescribed. Its interpretation may develop as evidence and clinical guidance are updated.

Who could benefit?

People taking several medicines have more opportunities to encounter a relevant drug-gene combination. Fair access will need careful planning, however, to ensure that testing is accessed by those who need it most.

Pharmacogenomics can reduce some of the trial and error involved in prescribing when a drug-gene relationship is backed by strong evidence. The NHS already has parts of the system in place. Wider use will require reliable testing and current clinical guidance. Prescribers will also need suitable training.

For both clinicians and patients, the practical question is simple: it is not so much a question of can or should we test, but how can we make testing routine?

Kevin Hollinrake, Sir Alec Shelbrooke, Tom Gordon and Julian Smith have written jointly to the Prime Minister arguing that upgrading the route would help deliver his pledge to drive economic growth across the country.

The MPs say the A64 is a “vital economic artery” linking York with Malton, Scarborough and the Yorkshire coast, as well as providing important connections to communities including Bridlington, Filey, Selby, Harrogate and Wetherby.

However, significant stretches remain single carriageway, which they say causes congestion, unreliable journey times and acts as a barrier to investment, tourism and economic growth.

Their intervention follows the establishment of the Government’s new Number 10 North initiative, which Mr Burnham has said will put the weight of central government behind regional economic growth and infrastructure.

In their letter, the MPs say: “The establishment of No10 North presents an opportunity to break that deadlock.

“Dualling the A64 would improve safety and journey times, strengthen connections between York and our coastal and rural communities and, crucially, unlock investment, productivity and growth across North Yorkshire.”

Mr Hollinrake said he and fellow North Yorkshire MPs had campaigned for improvements for more than a decade, repeatedly raising the issue with transport and Treasury ministers.

The Hopgrove to Barton section was previously included in the Government’s roads programme, with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson saying in 2020 that work should enable the scheme to be funded for construction during the 2025-30 investment period.

The York and North Yorkshire devolution deal subsequently stated that the Government would consider proposals to improve the A64 between Hopgrove Roundabout and Barton Hill as part of decisions on its third Road Investment Strategy.

However, the MPs say that more than ten years after the campaign began there is still no clear route to delivering the upgrade.

They have now asked Mr Burnham to make the A64 a priority for Number 10 North and work with them to establish a route towards finally dualling the road.

They added: “This is an opportunity to demonstrate in a tangible way what your commitment to growth across the North can mean in practice.”

The MPs have also requested a meeting with the Prime Minister and his Number 10 North team to discuss taking the project forward.

North Yorkshire Council has previously backed the dualling of the road and pledged to work cross-party with national and local politicians to secure the upgrade.

York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Sakith has previously pointed out that both Labour and Conservative governments have chosen not to press ahead with the dualling work.

Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury‘s fans are convinced they secretly got married while on holiday in Turkey.

The couple, both 27, have shared photos from the summer getaway with daughter Bambi, three, and 15-week-old son Midas.  

And followers are swapping theories that the pair, who got engaged in July 2023, have tied the knot. 

They said the ‘telling photos’ of Molly Mae wearing a strapless white dress suggested they had married while staying at luxury hotel Regnum The Crown.

Tommy also looked smart in a short-sleeved shirt and chinos, while holding their little boy in his arms, while Bambi posed in a white dress in front of them.

Molly-Mae wrote in the caption that it has been a ‘season of life she won’t forget’, as she looked back with fondness at the summer they welcomed Midas. 

They said the ‘telling photos’ of Molly Mae was wearing a strapless white dress suggested they had married while staying at luxury hotel Regnum The Crown 

Sharing their thoughts on the snaps, her fans said: ‘I keep getting “secret wedding” vibes every time I see that b&w with you in the lace…’, and others replied ‘me too,’ ‘right?!’ and ‘I was just thinking that.’ 

Others said: ‘Wait did you get married?’; ‘Did you guys get married’; ‘Did you guys get married?’; ‘They both have rings on’; 

‘Think she’s dropping hints it’s coming, firstly she is wearing the ring constantly and and now it’s the white dress’; ‘Yeah my Spidey senses are tingling’; ‘I just keep thinking a winter wedding is coming.’

Molly-Mae has been happily giving her fans a look at the family’s sun-soaked break, sharing several heartwarming moments with her fiancé and two children.   

Recent images show her doting on baby Midas as well as her and her family enjoying the hotel’s facilities.

The family last stayed at the hotel in August last year, just three months after rekindling their romance.

And last week, the Maebe founder shared more photos from her holiday album where she donned a black, one-shouldered swimsuit as she chilled with Midas and Bambi.

The Love Island star was also pictured in a bright green swimsuit as she posed for a snap while Tommy planted a kiss on his son’s head.

But after seeing the snaps, their followers have shared theories that the couple tied the knot following their July 2023 engagement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Molly-Mae happily showcased her toned midriff in a black crop top in a number of additional photos, while she also added a pop of colour to her holiday wardrobe with a pink co-ord.

The family appeared to be having a great time at the luxury resort, with proud dad Tommy snapping several cute photos of his loved ones.

The holiday comes after she reportedly waited to put her engagement ring back on after reconciling with Tommy as she wanted to see if he’d really changed following their shock split. 

The couple stunned fans when they announced their separation in August 2024 after five years together, with Tommy’s battles with alcohol later cited as the reason.

Fortunately, Molly-Mae and Tommy rekindled their romance in May 2025, which was confirmed on her Amazon Prime series. 

Despite getting back on track, Molly-Mae initially refused to put her £600,000 sparkler back on her finger, stating last year in her documentary that she didn’t ‘feel quite ready’ and wanted her love to make a ‘gesture’. 

However, amid recent pictures of her wearing her engagement ring again, it’s now been said Molly-Mae held out making the move because she wanted to be sure of Tommy’s commitment to family life following the birth of their second child. 

Molly-Mae previously told her mother in her documentary, Molly-Mae: Behind It All: ‘He wanted to have the family life and the life of a 25-year-old boy with no responsibilities. The two don’t go hand in hand.’

Molly-Mae has been flashing her diamond ring recently as she and Tommy enjoyed a loved-up, child-free getaway to Dubai last month.

The couple enjoyed a luxury stay at the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab after flying out first class.

Molly-Mae documented their journey, showing them kicking back on a first-class Emirates flight.

The Grey High Neck Bubble Hem Jacket is a versatile new addition to New Look’s New Season range

While many people reserve coordinating outfits mainly for the spring and summer, New Look has just dropped a duo that is perfect for autumn – and it comes in two colours. Pairing the high street retailer’s new Grey High Neck Bubble Hem Jacket, £45.99, and Dark Grey Pleated Tailored Wide Leg Trousers, £32.99, the set is the perfect mix of casual and smart thanks to its chic grey colourway and tailored design.

While the trousers are brilliant for work days, the jacket in this ensemble is certainly a versatile staple that can be worn in both casual and more fancy settings. This is thanks to its stylish and unique features that really lean into one of this year’s biggest trends.

As the name suggests, the Grey High Neck Bubble Hem Jacket features a bubble hemline that creates volume and body at the base, adding interest to any look. As for its ‘high neck’, the jacket features a funnel neck – something we’re seeing a lot of on the high street this year – that provides added protection from the elements.

READ MORE:

Not to mention it makes any look effortlessly chic and put together – especially since it is fastened with a hidden zip and popper top. The jacket itself comes in a grey colourway as well as a darker burgundy red that is seriously autumn-coded.

Ideal for layering, too, it’s described as a ‘great throw-on style’ as well as being ‘boxy’, which complements its drop shoulders and should mean a jumper can fit neatly underneath when the weather turns. As for the trousers which go with it – which are sadly only available in grey, it seems – they have a tailored design with pleats at the top for a sleek, slimming silhouette that falls into a wide leg that is both comfortable and elegant.

Shop the Grey High Neck Bubble Hem Jacket

£45.99

New Look

Advertisement

Buy Now on New Look

The Grey High Neck Bubble Hem Jacket is available at New Look.

Loops on the waistband enable the trousers to be accessorised with a belt, achieving a snug, cinched-in fit. Meanwhile, pockets ensure practicality. While the jacket is still available on the New Look website in sizes 6 to 22the only drawback we can see is that neither the jacket nor the trousers come in any other lengths but regular, so, those with petite or tall statures may find the sleeves or legs a smidge too long or short.

For anyone who wants a different colour palette, Nobody’s Child’s Cobalt Blue Funnel Neck Jacket, £135, is a gorgeous alternative that comes in a vibrant blue hue that’ll certainly turn some heads. If a pattern is the right fit, Mango’s funnel-neck bomber jacket in brown check, £89.99, is a fun alternative that is both neutral and interesting. With a concealed placket and elasticated hemline, it has similar drop shoulders and a boxy fit.

The New Look jacket, as part of the brand’s new season, is sure to be a hit thanks to its versatile colourway, style and shape. And though it’s not yet received any reviews, being so fresh to the website, fans of the brand were quick to comment on the new autumn release on Instagram when New Look posted a photo of this exact jacket and trouser duo.

One comment read: “So fabulous”, while another added: “Obsessed.” Someone else wrote: “Wowwwwww.”

Shop the jacket here and the trousers here.

A baby has tragically died and two individuals arrested following an incident in England.

Emergency crews rushed to Long Street, Atherstone, West Midlands, this morning, Friday, September 11, at approximately 11.50am after receiving reports of a one-year-old girl in cardiac arrest.

Despite paramedics’ desperate attempts to save her life, the young child sadly passed away. A man and woman have been detained on suspicion of child neglect.

Part of Long Street remains closed off, with a significant emergency services presence still at the scene, reports Coventry Live.

A Warwickshire Police spokesperson stated: “Two arrests have been made as detectives investigate the death of a child today, 11 September.

“At around 11.50am we were called to a home in Atherstone to reports of a one-year-old girl in cardiac arrest.

“Sadly, despite us and our ambulance colleagues making every effort to save her, she passed away.

“A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of child neglect and they remain in custody at this time.

“There is a scene in place and a partial road closure on Long Street and we would like to thank residents for their understanding.

“We know many will find this news upsetting. Officers will be in the area for the time being – please speak with them if you have any concerns.”

Ensure our latest stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

Jayden Williams, 21 and Marcus Gonzales, 42, were found to be operating a drugs line involved in the supply of heroin, crack cocaine and cocaine

Drug dealers involved in supplying wholesale quantities of heroin and crack cocaine were found in possession of calling cards which advertised their drugs line. Messages were found on their phones which revealed they were selling to downstream dealers.

Jayden Williams, 21 and Marcus Gonzales, 42, were in a car stopped by police in Bridgend on May 6 after it was found that Williams had breached a Serious Crime Prevention Order (SCPO). Inside the car were calling cards advertising a drugs line, named the “JB line”.

A sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court on Friday heard messages found on phones belonging to the defendants revealed they were involved in supplying wholesale quantities of heroin, crack cocaine and cocaine.

Prosecutor Abdallah Barakat said Gonzales was operating under the name of Mark Griffiths, and was in conversation with Williams about supplying half ounce deals of class A drugs. Don’t miss a court report by signing up to our crime newsletter here

The messages contained recognised terms relating to drugs including “dark” and “white”.

One message sent from Williams to Gonzales read: “I’ll smash you out now, I’m not giving my number out to some crack head to f*** it up”.

Mr Barakat said Williams had overall authority over the JB line with Gonzales also playing a leading role.

The JB line was used by downstream suppliers to purchase drugs to supply to street users.

Williams, of no fixed abode, and Gonzales, of Broadway, Cardiff, later pleaded guilty to three counts of conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

In mitigation, Alice Sykes for Williams said her client had been recalled to prison after breaching the SCPO and would not receive a reduction to his sentence for the time he has already served.

Adam Sharp, for Gonzales, said his client was a drug addict and has problems with his mental health including anxiety and depression. The barrister said the defendant was lower in the chain than his co-defendant.

Judge Williams sentenced Williams to five years imprisonment.

Gonzales was sentenced to five years and seven months imprisonment.

Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here. We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice.

Yasin Leli, 46, of Hardman Street, Blackburn, is charged with the murder of Fatima Leli and Ismail Leliat their home address.

After being charged by police with killing the couple, who were married for more than 60 years and described as “inseparable”, he made his first appearance at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court earlier today.

Yasin Leli, who spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court, where he is next due to appear on Tuesday, September 15.

Police were called to Hardman Street on Monday morning, where they found 80-year-old Ismail Ahmed Leli and 78-year-old Fatma Leli with stab injuries.

Both were pronounced dead at the scene, and their son was arrested on suspicion of murder at the address.

The incident caused police to set up a large cordon in Hardman Street and in neighbouring Stansfeld Street, while officers carried out enquiries.

Family and other residents in the area were offered support at the Masjid-e-Quwwatul Islam in Stansfeld Street, while St Luke’s Church also gave help to people affected in the area.

Tributes were paid to the couple, with a family statement reading: “On behalf of our entire family, we are heartbroken to share that we have lost our parents, the oldest and most cherished members of our family.

“Married and inseparable for more than 60 years, they were the very heart of who we are – devoted to one another, loved by everyone who knew them.

“Their loss left a void that words cannot describe, and we are still coming to terms with what has happened.

“At this incredibly difficult time, we wish to express our deepest gratitude to the police for their diligence, professionalism and compassion.

“We are also grateful to our local councillors and to the wider community, whose kindness and support have meant a great deal to us.”

While the money from the tickets, which ranged from £80 to £150, went directly to the hosts, SME4Labour (Small and Medium Enterprises for Labour), party sources told the LDRS the event was a testing ground for a run at City Hall should Lord Sadiq Khan decide not to run for a fourth term.

‘Oh no, the ceremony!’

I jumped naked out of the tiny single bed I was squashed into with a naked man named Rory*, and ran to the bathroom.

In the distance, I could hear the faint sounds of people gathering.

‘The wedding!’ I ran back in the room and yelled at Rory who was in a frozen state of confusion and shock, before grabbing my dress and leaping back into the bathroom.

This isn’t the beginning of a Hugh Grant rom com, it was how I attended my friend’s wedding in a villa in Lake Como, Italy: late, after having shagged the best man’s brother who I had just met days before.

It was absurd and embarrassing, and I haven’t lived it down since.

When I got to Italy on a flight with four other friends, the last thing I was thinking was to get laid. I had just my friend Sharon* on my mind – her wedding meant her rules. Luckily, she was one organised bride, so I didn’t have to do much to help.

While I was a good friend, I didn’t quite make the cut for bridesmaid, which I was quite happy about, after seeing them run around with clipboards for the next three days.

Sharon had decided on a destination wedding – Lake Como was all the rage at the time and was full of beautiful villas to marry in. She chose a large estate with enough rooms to house the 40 people attending the wedding, over four days.

The ceremony would be on day two, leaving us one extra day for recovery. We were, after all a chaotic bunch, having all met at the local pub over 10 years prior.

And it was a glorious wedding that culminated in lots of hilarious stories.

One being my dalliance with the best man’s brother Rory.

When I first placed eyes on him, I thought he was cute. Beyond that, I didn’t think much – as I said, I hadn’t even considered getting with anyone, I just wanted to have fun with my friends.

But he evidently thought I was cute too, because the night we all arrived, drinking by the pool, he came and sat next to me, asking me what felt like hundreds of questions about my life.

He wanted to know what I did for a living, how old I was, if I had any pets, what I thought of dogs. Big dogs. He told me he had two big dogs.

I looked over at Sharon by question 12, and she smiled back winking.

I guess that was it – I was going to have to sleep with him.

That night, we were the last ones standing and shared a kiss by the silent pool, giggling. One thing led to another, and after all the wine we managed to down, we ended up having sex by the pool. 

It was quick and dangerous. While people had gone to bed, the villa was still awake, with bedroom lights on and voices echoing across the lawns.

I said goodnight after and went to bed in a room I was sharing with a friend at the time. As I crept in she turned on the light demanding to know all details of what had happened.

‘You had sex didn’t you?’, she said, smiling at me.

‘Yes!’ I fell to the bed laughing. It was the start of my holiday romance, and I was excited.

The next day, we set up for the ceremony – the bridesmaids were like headless chickens, frowning at everything they saw, losing clipboards and taking one too many ciggie breaks to calm down.

I had woken up late with a hangover and was very little help.

So while they did that, I slipped away with Rory and we went for a cute walk. To his room. And had sex. This was the full extent of our relationship, and while I wanted to do more – go on romantic dates and get to know him – we had limited time.

But we had obviously fallen asleep because I was awoken to the sound of music and people gathering on the villa terrace.

It hit me – the ceremony was starting, and we were still in bed.

After jumping out of bed and telling Rory to get his clothes on, I walked very quickly from his room to mine.

I had an estimated five minutes to get ready, and I was nowhere near presentable.

I threw on the new dress I had bought for the wedding and the heels that I feared were too big. Brushed my hair, applied as much makeup as possible and ran out of my room – after taking off and holding my massive heels.

As I ran to the ceremony, Sharon had already walked down the aisle. I couldn’t believe I missed it. Looking behind me, I see Rory struggling with his bowtie, half running, half skipping to the front seats. 

He stands up quickly, does up his fly and sits back down as people around him giggle.

I grab a seat in the back and lock eyes with Sharon. After attempting to mime a ‘sorry’, she bursts out laughing and winks at me.

Luckily, she didn’t care, but obviously everyone knew why I was late.

I looked over at the friend next to me: ‘how obvious was it?’ I asked.

‘You might as well have been having sex with him at the altar’, he whispered back at me.

Nervously giggling, I melted into my seat and enjoyed the rest of the ceremony. Everything else went smoothly and Rory and I continued our holiday romance – this time, we didn’t hide it.

When the wedding was over, Rory and I said goodbye, promising to chat when we got back – me to London, him to Edinburgh. 

But we never did. It didn’t matter, he’s still in my life. Every time I’m late to something, my friends always quip: ‘Having sex with Rory were you?’

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing izzie.price@metro.co.uk. 

Share your views in the comments below.

MORE: The ‘timeless’ wedding pose 2026 brides are obsessed with right now

MORE: Violet grew up in a happy, middle-class home – what happened next shows anyone can be groomed

MORE: I quit my job to run across 10 countries in 99 days

An operation targeting crime and anti-social behaviour in Newport city centre was launched in July

Police have made 241 arrests during an operation targeting crime and anti-social behaviour in Newport city centre. Operation Krypton was launched in July by Gwent Police in partnership with Newport City Council and other organisations, including Hedyn following concerns raised by residents and business owners of intimidating and criminal behaviour.

The arrests have involved a range of offences, including burglary, shoplifting, drug supply and disorderly behaviour, according to police. Officers say 11 people classed as repeat offenders have been arrested at least twice during the operation.

Police have also carried out drug warrants, recovered stolen vehicles and seized £9,000 worth of property they believe is connected to criminal activity.

For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here

A total of 18 reported commercial burglaries in the city have been detected since July, police said.

The operation has also involved more than a dozen activities carried out with partner organisations to address crime and anti-social behaviour.

Among those dealt with by the courts are Mohammed Salam and Nicole Clarke, who were jailed for burglary and theft offences committed in Newport city centre.

Sam Mulligan was also imprisoned for theft.

Superintendent Esyr Jones, of Gwent Police’s Neighbourhood Policing team, said officers would continue to target offences in the city centre.

He said this included breaches of Public Spaces Protection Orders covering issues such as street drinking and begging.

“Where we identify offences, including Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) breaches for street drinking and begging in the city centre, we will take appropriate action,” he said.

Police said high-visibility patrols would continue in areas affected by crime and disorder.

Residents are being encouraged to sign up to Neighbourhood Matters, a community messaging service, to provide feedback about local policing priorities.

Suspicious activity can be reported to Gwent Police on 101, through its social media channels or online.

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

People should call 999 if a crime is in progress or there is an immediate emergency.

Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here. We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice