Researchers Cut Gene Therapy Wait Time for Sickle Cell Patients
What Happened
A first-in-human pilot trial found a new way to collect stem cells for sickle cell gene therapy in a single hospital visit for most patients. The approach also shortened the time needed to modify and return the cells, reducing the process from months to an average of seven weeks.
Key Takeaways
The advance could make potentially life-changing gene therapies more accessible and less burdensome for people with sickle cell disease by reducing hospital visits and speeding up treatment.