The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval to Upstaza (eladocagene exuparvovec), a gene therapy developed by PTC Therapeutics, for the treatment of Aromatic L-Amino Acid Decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency. This approval marks a significant advancement in the treatment of this rare and debilitating genetic disorder.
Upstaza is designed to address the underlying genetic cause of AADC deficiency by delivering a functional copy of the DDC gene directly into the brain. The therapy is administered via a neurosurgical procedure, allowing for targeted delivery to the affected brain region.
AADC deficiency is an ultra-rare genetic disorder that affects the production of dopamine and serotonin, critical neurotransmitters in the brain. The deficiency leads to severe motor, cognitive, and autonomic dysfunction, significantly impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Symptoms typically manifest in infancy and can include developmental delays, muscle weakness, movement disorders, and oculogyric crises.
"The FDA approval of Upstaza offers a new hope for patients and families affected by AADC deficiency," said a leading researcher in the field. "This gene therapy has the potential to significantly improve motor function and overall quality of life for these children."
Upstaza had previously received approvals outside the United States and is marketed under the brand name Kebilidi in those regions. The FDA approval now makes this innovative therapy available to patients in the US, addressing a critical unmet medical need for this ultra-rare disease.
