UC Davis Health has premiered a new documentary, "John-John's Journey: Gene Replacement Therapy Offers New Hope for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)," highlighting a family's journey from Taiwan to Northern California to participate in a clinical trial. The film follows Dino Kong, Emily Kuo, and their son John as they seek treatment for John's DMD. DMD is a severe genetic disorder primarily affecting boys, characterized by progressive muscle weakness, including the heart and lungs, often leading to early death.
Elevidys Trial at UC Davis
John, at two years old, is participating in a clinical trial at UC Davis Health, one of the primary sites testing Elevidys in younger children. Elevidys, manufactured by Sarepta Therapeutics, is a gene replacement therapy designed to address the root cause of DMD by replacing the defective gene with a functional one. This one-time infusion has already received FDA approval for children aged 4 and 5. UC Davis was the first health system in California to administer Elevidys.
The Significance of Gene Replacement Therapy
DMD affects mostly boys, with symptoms often appearing as early as age 2. The condition weakens all muscles in the body, including the heart and lungs, leading to significant health complications. Elevidys is considered a breakthrough as it targets the underlying genetic defect rather than merely treating the symptoms.
Leadership and Production
The clinical trial is being led by Dr. Craig McDonald, professor and chair of the UC Davis Health Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The documentary was produced by Pamela Wu, director of news and media relations at UC Davis Health, and videographer Chris Nelson.
