Gene Therapies Advance to Human Trials for Heart Regeneration
Researchers have begun the first clinical trial of a gene therapy designed to grow new heart-muscle cells. At least four additional regenerative gene therapies for heart conditions are in development by companies.
foxnews.comScientists have started the first clinical trial of a gene therapy intended to regenerate heart-muscle cells in adult patients. The approach targets heart failure, a condition that affects millions worldwide. Heart-muscle cells normally stop dividing after early development in mammals. Researchers are testing methods to restart limited cell division in damaged adult hearts.
Andrew Baker, a gene-therapy researcher at the University of Edinburgh who is not involved in the projects, stated that these represent the first-in-human studies to move cardiac regeneration into clinical testing. He described the period as a very exciting time.
Companies are advancing at least four other gene-therapy candidates aimed at heart conditions. The therapies use different molecular strategies to promote new muscle-cell growth. No approved regenerative treatment for adult heart muscle currently exists.
The ongoing trial and additional programs will provide initial data on safety and biological activity in patients.
Key Facts
Potential Impact
- 01
Trial results will determine whether the therapy proceeds to larger efficacy studies.
- 02
Positive safety data could accelerate regulatory review of similar cardiac gene therapies.
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