A systematic review of adeno-associated virus gene therapies in neurology: the need for consistent safety monitoring of a promising treatment

Abstract

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapies are generating much excitement in the rare disease field, particularly for previously untreatable neurological conditions. Efficacy has been claimed for several gene therapy products and the number of trials is rapidly increasing. However, reports of severe treatment-related adverse reactions are emerging, including death. There is still insufficient knowledge about their aetiology, prevention and treatment. We therefore undertook to systematically review publicly available data on AAV gene therapies in order to collate existing information on both safety and efficacy. Here, we review emerging efficacy reports of these novel therapies, many of which show promise. We also collate an increasing number of adverse reactions. Overwhelmingly, these results make a case for unified reporting of adverse events. This is likely to be critical for improving the safety of these promising treatments.

Perry Disease: Bench to Bedside Circulation and a Team Approach

“…This approach may be one option for studying the therapeutic treatment of Perry disease [3]. With the development of genome-editing technologies, genetic therapy is being attempted in several neurodegenerative diseases [93][94][95]. Gene therapy is also expected to be used in Perry disease; however, the time at which intervention should start needs to be discussed.…”