Toward low-cost gene therapy: mRNA-based therapeutics for treatment of inherited retinal diseases

Trends Mol Med. 2023 Dec 2:S1471-4914(23)00271-X. doi: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.11.009. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTInherited retinal diseases (IRDs) stem from genetic mutations that result in vision impairment. Gene therapy shows promising therapeutic potential, exemplified by the encouraging initial results with voretigene neparvovec. Nevertheless, the associated costs impede widespread access, particularly in low-to-middle income countries. The primary challenge remains: how can we make these therapies globally affordable? Leveraging advancements in mRNA therapies might offer a more economically viable alternative. Furthermore, transitioning to nonviral delivery systems could provide a dual benefit of reduced costs and increased scalability. Relevant stakeholders must collaboratively devise and implement a research agenda to realize the potential of mRNA strategies in equitable access to treatments to prevent vision loss.PMID:38044158 | DOI:10.1016/j.molmed.2023.11.009

Source: Trends in Molecular Medicine - December 3, 2023 Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Pedro Antas Cl áudia Carvalho Joaquim Cabral-Teixeira Lu ísa de Lemos Miguel C Seabra Source Type: research