Expanded Capacity AAV Retinal Gene Therapy Enabled by Efficient RNA-Joining Technology

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Grant Award Details

Grant Number:
DISC2-14187
Investigator(s):
Institution:
Type:
PI

Award Value:
$0
Status:
Closed

Grant Application Details

Application Title:

Expanded Capacity AAV Retinal Gene Therapy Enabled by Efficient RNA-Joining Technology

Public Abstract:
Research Objective

A novel AAV-based gene therapy candidate for use in treatment of inherited ocular disease.

Impact

AAV vectors have a limited cargo capacity (<5kb), preventing their use in the treatment of many untreatable genetic diseases caused by large genes.

Major Proposed Activities

  • In vitro optimization and selection of gene therapy candidates
  • In vivo testing to establish efficacy of gene therapy candidates
  • Demonstration of disease-modifying activity in mouse genetic model of ocular disease
  • Evaluation of safety for a dual vector AAV approach
  • Testing activity in human photoreceptors
Statement of Benefit to California:
Of the 280 genetic mutations that cause inherited retinal disease (IRD), there is an approved treatment for just one. Our innovative technology provides a solution for challenges encountered by conventional AAV-based gene therapy approaches. Because our technology is agnostic to gene, the advancement of this therapy will be an important step forward for developing treatment for a wide variety of genetic diseases, including those that impact the diverse California population.