To replicate or not to replicate? The case of pharmacogenetic studies

Statistical replication has always been the gold standard in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, as we have previously pointed out, there are many good reasons why true genetic associations might not replicate (Greene et al. 2009). This 2013 paper explores the issue with respect to pharmacogenetic studies. The mantra of GWAS is now focused on the identification of new drug targets using genetic association results. If this is true, should biological validation matter more than statistical replication? 

Aslibekyan S, Claas SA, Arnett DK. To replicate or not to replicate: the case of pharmacogenetic studies: Establishing validity of pharmacogenomic findings: from replication to triangulation. Circ Cardiovasc Genet. 2013 Aug;6(4):409-12 [PubMed]