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Published on: October 9, 2018
In Utero Gene Therapy for Primary Immunodeficiencies
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Services, University of California, San Francisco, California.
Insights
Gene therapy offers a promising treatment for primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs). Fetal gene therapy, or in utero gene therapy, may represent a future direction for improved PID outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are genetic disorders affecting the immune system.
- PIDs are characterized by significant morbidity and mortality.
- Many PIDs have a single-gene etiology, making them suitable for gene therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current treatments for primary immunodeficiencies.
- To discuss the history and current status of gene therapy for PIDs.
- To explore the potential of fetal gene therapy for treating PIDs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PID treatments.
- Review of gene therapy history and applications in PIDs.
- Discussion of in utero gene therapy concepts.
Main Results:
- Gene therapy is a viable treatment for PIDs.
- Early intervention improves treatment outcomes.
- Fetal gene therapy is a potential future treatment strategy.
Conclusions:
- Gene therapy is a key therapeutic strategy for PIDs.
- Fetal gene therapy holds promise for improving outcomes in PIDs.
- Further research into in utero gene therapy is warranted.
Abstract:
Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) have become a prime target for gene therapy given the morbidity, mortality, and the single gene etiology. Given that outcomes are better the earlier gene therapy is implemented, it is possible that fetal gene therapy may be an important future direction for the treatment of PIDs. In this chapter, the current treatments available for several PIDs will be reviewed, as well as the history and current status of gene therapy for PIDs. The possibility of in utero gene therapy as a possibility will then be discussed.
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