PharmocogenOmics for minimized Risk and better Efficacy in Children on highdose Steroid Treatment
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Karolinska Institutet - Institutet f miljömedicin IMM, Avd f interativ metabolomik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 985 000 |
| Project duration | April 2026 - March 2029 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | European partnership for Personalised Medicine |
| Call | International collaboration in pharmacogenomics in personalised medicine |
Purpose and goal
The purpose of PhORECaST is to personalize high-dose glucocorticoid treatment in children with immune-mediated diseases. The project aims to identify and validate multi-omics biomarkers that predict treatment efficacy and toxicity, compare 3- versus 5-day steroid pulses, and develop evidence-based, patient-centered decision tools for safer and more effective care.
Expected effects and result
PhORECaST will deliver validated multi-omics biomarkers that predict glucocorticoid (GC) efficacy and toxicity in children, clarify the comparative benefits of 3- versus 5-day steroid pulses, and generate actionable patient stratification models. These results are expected to reduce overtreatment and adverse effects, support earlier use of targeted therapies, and improve clinical outcomes and quality of life through personalized, evidence-based care.
Planned approach and implementation
PhORECaST will conduct a prospective, multi-centre study enrolling children receiving 3‑ or 5‑day high-dose glucocorticoid therapy. Standardized clinical data, patient‑reported outcomes, and multi‑omics profiles will be collected longitudinally and integrated using robust bioinformatics and machine learning. Validated biomarkers will be translated into practical decision-support tools, supported by clinician training, patient engagement, and ethical oversight to enable real‑world implementation