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Baas L, Meijer K, Bredenoord AL, van der Graaf R. What is a cure through gene therapy? An analysis and evaluation of the use of "cure". MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2024:10.1007/s11019-024-10223-w. [PMID: 39172342 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-024-10223-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The development of gene therapy has always come with the expectation that it will offer a cure for various disorders, of which hemophilia is a paradigm example. However, although the term is used regularly, it is unclear what exactly is meant with "cure". Therefore, the aim of this paper is to analyse how the concept of cure is used in practice and evaluate which of the interpretations is most suitable in discussions surrounding gene therapy. We analysed how cure is used in four different medical fields where the concept raises discussion. We show that cure can be used in three different ways: cure as normalization of the body, cure as obtaining a normal life, or cure as a change in identity. We argue that since cure is a practical term, its interpretation should be context-specific and the various uses can exist simultaneously, as long as their use is suitable to the function the notion of cure plays in each of the settings. We end by highlighting three different settings in the domain of hemophilia gene therapy in which the term cure is used and explore the function(s) it serves in each setting. We conclude that in the clinical application of gene therapy, it could be better to abandon the term cure, whereas more modest and specified definitions of cure are required in the context of health resource allocation decisions and decisions on research funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke Baas
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Karina Meijer
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Erasmus School of Philosophy, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rieke van der Graaf
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Miesbach W, Mulders G, Breederveld D, Pinachyan K, Le Quellec S, Pabinger I. A 360-degree perspective on adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy for haemophilia: Insights from the physician, the nurse and the patient. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:193. [PMID: 38741157 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03181-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy for haemophilia has advanced substantially in the last 13 years; recently, three products have received approvals from regulatory authorities. Although the impact on quality of life seems promising, some limitations remain, such as the presence of pre-existing anti-AAV neutralising antibodies and the occurrence of hepatotoxicity. This review follows the CSL Behring-sponsored symposium at the 27th Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2022 that examined the haemophilia gene therapy process from a 360-degree multidisciplinary perspective. Here, the faculty (haematologist, nurse and haemophilia patient) summarised their own viewpoints from the symposium, with the aim of highlighting the key considerations required to engage with gene therapy effectively, for both patients and providers, as well as the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, including with industry. RESULTS When considering these new therapies, patients face a complex decision-making process, which includes whether gene therapy is right for them at their current stage of life. The authors agreed that collaboration and tailored education across the multidisciplinary team (including patients and their carers/families), starting early in the process and continuing throughout the long-term follow-up period, is key for the success of gene therapy. Additionally, patient expectations, which may surround eligibility, follow-up requirements and treatment outcomes, should be continually explored. During these ongoing discussions, transparent communication of the unknown factors, such as anticipated clotting factor levels, long-term factor expression and safety, and psychological changes, is critical. To ensure efficiency and comprehensiveness, clearly‑defined protocols should outline the whole process, which should include the recording and management of long-term effects. CONCLUSION In order to engage effectively, both patients and providers should be familiar with these key considerations prior to their involvement with the haemophilia gene therapy process. The future after the approval of haemophilia gene therapies remains to be seen and real-world evidence is eagerly awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Miesbach
- Coagulation and Haemophilia Centre, Medical Clinic 2, Goethe University Hospital, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Greta Mulders
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daan Breederveld
- Brendaan Occupational Health Consultancy, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Ingrid Pabinger
- Clinical Division of Haematology and Haemostaseology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Bala NS, Thornburg CD. Gene Therapy in Hemophilia A: Achievements, Challenges, and Perspectives. Semin Thromb Hemost 2024. [PMID: 38588706 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1785483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Strides in advancements of care of persons with hemophilia include development of long-acting factor replacement therapies, novel substitution and hemostatic rebalancing agents, and most recently approved gene therapy. Several decades of preclinical and clinical trials have led to development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer for endogenous production of factor VIII (FVIII) in hemophilia A (HA). Only one gene therapy product for HA (valoctocogene roxaparvovec) has been approved by regulatory authorities. Results of valoctocogene roxaparvovec trial show significant improvement in bleeding rates and use of factor replacement therapy; however, sustainability and duration of response show variability with overall decline in FVIII expression over time. Further challenges include untoward adverse effects involving liver toxicity requiring immunosuppression and development of neutralizing antibodies to AAV vector rendering future doses ineffective. Real-life applicability of gene therapy for HA will require appropriate patient screening, infrastructure setup, long-term monitoring including data collection of patient-reported outcomes and innovative payment schemes. This review article highlights the success and development of HA gene therapy trials, challenges including adverse outcomes and variability of response, and perspectives on approach to gene therapy including shared decision-making and need for future strategies to overcome the several unmet needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha S Bala
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, San Diego, California
- Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Courtney D Thornburg
- Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, San Diego, California
- Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California
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Thornburg CD. The benefits of gene therapy in people with haemophilia. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31 Suppl 1:4-8. [PMID: 38606945 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder which causes significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the severe form. Prophylaxis with factor replacement has high efficacy in reducing bleeding but is limited by the need for frequent intravenous infusion and fluctuations in haemostasis between doses. Additional prophylaxis therapies are being developed which may overcome some of the current treatment barriers. Gene therapy (GT) is being developed to provide a functional cure such that there is sustained factor expression and minimal to no need for additional haemostatic therapy. There are now two approved gene therapies for haemophilia which may be transformative for many individuals. Benefits of GT should go beyond increasing factor activity and reducing bleeding as persons with haemophilia aim to achieve a 'haemophilia-free mind' and health equity with optimal health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney D Thornburg
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
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Fletcher S, Jenner K, Holland M, Khair K. Barriers to gene therapy, understanding the concerns people with haemophilia have: an exigency sub-study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:59. [PMID: 38341591 PMCID: PMC10859013 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene therapy has the potential to offer people with haemophilia (PwH) a life free from bleeding and the burden posed by current treatment regimens. To date, gene therapy has only been available in clinical trial settings, to PwH without pre-existing or historical factor inhibitors, significant concomitant liver damage or pre-existing neutralising antibodies to the adeno-associated viruses used to deliver the therapy. Thus, most PwH treated at centres not currently involved in gene therapy trials, either as a referral/follow-up centre or as a dosing centre, have been unable to access the therapy. This Exigency sub-study aims to gain a greater understanding of the opinions of PwH in the United Kingdom who have not had access to gene therapy: asking what they understand, what concerns they have, and whether they perceive any barriers preventing their access to gene therapy. RESULTS Twenty-three PwH were approached; 14 consented, and one withdrew prior to interview. The mean age of the participants was 35.7 years (range 25-74 years). Eleven had haemophilia A and two haemophilia B. Two were treated with standard half-life factor products, five with extended half-life products, five with a FVIII mimetic and one with a clinical trial product. One family member (a participant's partner) was also interviewed. The participants identified four barriers to gene therapy: concerns about the process of gene therapy (Expectations), uncertainty about the results (outcomes), (Access) to treatment, and a lack of understanding about gene therapy (education). CONCLUSIONS This Exigency study subgroup sees gene therapy as a positive treatment development that promises an improved quality of life. For this participant group, four issues impact their decision to undergo gene therapy. If the promise of gene therapy is to be realised, these barriers need to be acknowledged and addressed by healthcare professionals, patient organisations, and gene therapy providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Fletcher
- Haemnet, London, N15 3JR, UK.
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK.
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Di Minno G, Spadarella G, Maldonato NM, De Lucia N, Castaman G, De Cristofaro R, Santoro C, Peyvandi F, Borrelli A, Lupi A, Follino M, Guerrino G, Morisco F, Di Minno M. Awareness of individual goals, preferences, and priorities of persons with severe congenital haemophilia A for a tailored shared decision-making approach to liver-directed gene therapy. A practical guideline. Blood Rev 2023; 62:101118. [PMID: 37544828 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
In clinical medicine, shared decision making (SDM) is a well-recognized strategy to enhance engagement of both patients and clinicians in medical decisions. The success of liver-directed gene therapy (GT) to transform severe congenital haemophilia A (HA) from an incurable to a curable disease has launched a shift beyond current standards of treatment. However, GT acceptance remains low in the community of HA persons. We argue for both persons with haemophilia (PWH) and specialists in HA care including clinicians, as needing SDM-oriented educational programs devoted to GT. Here, we provide an ad hoc outline to implement education to SDM and tailor clinician information on GT to individual PWHs. Based on routine key components of SDM: patient priorities; recommendations based on individual risk reduction; adverse effects; drug-drug interactions; alternatives to GT; and ongoing re-assessment of the objectives as risk factors (and individual priorities) change, this approach is finalized to exploit efficacious communication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaia Spadarella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Naples, Italy.
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e di Scienze Riproduttive e Odontostomatologiche, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy
| | - Natascia De Lucia
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e di Scienze Riproduttive e Odontostomatologiche, "Federico II" University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Castaman
- Center for Bleeding Disorders and Coagulation, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Raimondo De Cristofaro
- Section of Haemorrhagic and Thrombotic Diseases, Department of Medicine and Translational Surgery, Sacred Heart University, Rome, Italy..
| | - Cristina Santoro
- Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy.
| | - Flora Peyvandi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, 20122 Milan, Italy; Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Borrelli
- Direzione Sanitaria, AOU "Federico II" Napoli, Italy
| | - Angelo Lupi
- Federazione delle Associazioni Emofilici (FedEmo), Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Matteo Di Minno
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Naples, Italy.
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Lieschke K, Scott V, Delatycki MB, Lewis S, Munsie M, Tanner C, Corben LA. How Great a Risk Do You Take? A Qualitative Study Exploring Attitudes of Individuals with Friedreich Ataxia Toward Gene Therapy. Hum Gene Ther 2023; 34:1041-1048. [PMID: 37624740 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2023.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Scientists and pharmaceutical companies are working toward delivering gene therapy (GT) for Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). Understanding the views of people with lived experience of FRDA and their parents toward GT is essential to inform trial design and identify potential barriers to participation in clinical trials. The goals of this study were to identify the attitudes toward GT held by individuals with FRDA and parents of individuals with FRDA, and to explore how these may impact future trials for this condition. Audiorecorded, semistructured, qualitative interviews with 19 Australians explored experiences of FRDA, knowledge about clinical trials, views on GT, including risks and benefits, and potential barriers to participation in trials. Participants included thirteen individuals living with FRDA aged between 15-43 years, and six parents of children with FRDA aged 4-12 years of age. Thematic analysis of the interviews identified six main themes. Findings from this study indicate there is strong desire for information regarding GT in FRDA, however the current level of uncertainty around GT makes decision making challenging. The desire to maintain functional status and avoid additional risk of deterioration from an investigational treatment was apparent. Importantly, neurological targets were identified as preferred for GT trials. Further research is required to identify if attitudes and perceptions differ according to geographical location and disease stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Lieschke
- Bruce Lefroy Center for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Varlli Scott
- Bruce Lefroy Center for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Bruce Lefroy Center for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sharon Lewis
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Reproductive Epidemiology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Megan Munsie
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Claire Tanner
- Department of Sociology, School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Louise A Corben
- Bruce Lefroy Center for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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Limjoco J, Thornburg CD. Development of a haemophilia A gene therapy shared decision-making tool for clinicians. Haemophilia 2023; 29:1184-1190. [PMID: 37401924 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As gene therapies are incorporated into clinical practice, shared decision-making (SDM) is recommended for implementation. AIM To inform development of a clinician SDM tool for haemophilia A gene therapy. METHODS Clinicians at US Hemophilia Treatment Centers completed semi-structured interviews about their experience with SDM and provided feedback on a clinician SDM tool prototype. Interviews were transcribed verbatim for coding and thematic content analysis. RESULTS Ten participants enrolled, eight physicians and two haemophilia nurses. All participants care for adults with haemophilia (1-27 years of experience) and 7 have gene therapy trials open at their institution. Confidence in having a clinical discussion about gene therapy included none (N = 1), slight (N = 3), moderate (N = 5) and high (N = 1). All participants reported familiarity with SDM and agreed that the tool would be useful for their clinical practice. Key themes in participant feedback for the tool were (1) language and presentation; (2) content; and (3) implementation. Participants highlighted the importance of providing unbiased information and having companion tools with patient-centric language. CONCLUSION These data highlight the need for SDM tools for haemophilia A gene therapy. Key information to include in the tool are safety, efficacy, cost and detailed information on the gene therapy process. Data should be provided in an unbiased format and allow comparison to other treatments. The tool will be evaluated in clinical practice and refined as clinical trial data and real-world experience mature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Limjoco
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Courtney D Thornburg
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego Health Sciences, La Jolla, California, USA
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Castaman G, Coppens M, Pipe SW. Etranacogene dezaparvovec for the treatment of adult patients with severe and moderately severe hemophilia B. Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:919-932. [PMID: 37882214 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2276206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Etranacogene dezaparvovec is the first gene therapy approved for treatment of adults with severe and moderately severe hemophilia B. AREAS COVERED This review describes the results of the clinical trial program of AMT-060 and etranacogene dezaparvovec, outlining the pharmacokinetic, clinical efficacy and safety data. With the entry of etranacogene dezaparvovec into the market, this review summarizes the treatment landscape in hemophilia B and discusses the current unknowns in the field. EXPERT OPINION Gene therapy appears to be a feasible option for adults with severe and moderately severe hemophilia B. Etranacogene dezaparvovec enables most patients to reach stable factor IX (FIX) levels after a single intravenous infusion, eliminating the need for regular prophylaxis; thus, drastically reducing treatment burden and avoiding variable bleeding risk owing to fluctuating FIX activity levels. Efficacy of etranacogene dezaparvovec has been demonstrated even in the presence of preexisting neutralizing antibodies (up to a titer of 1:678), with a relative low risk of transaminitis and its associated potential loss of transgene expression. However, long-term data are required to ascertain the durability of FIX levels achieved and safety. The cost-effectiveness and adoption of innovative payment models for reimbursement are key in choosing gene therapy over existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Castaman
- Department of Oncology, Center for Bleeding Disorders and Coagulation, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Michiel Coppens
- Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Pulmonary Hypertension & Thrombosis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven W Pipe
- Departments of Pediatrics and Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Fletcher S, Jenner K, Holland M, Khair K. Expectation and loss when gene therapy for haemophilia is not an option: An exigency sub-study. Haemophilia 2023; 29:776-783. [PMID: 36882329 DOI: 10.1111/hae.14774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qualitative studies have explored why people with haemophilia (PwH) might consider or forgo gene therapy, the impact it has had on those who have received it, and what support might be needed throughout the process. No studies have yet examined what withdrawal prior to transfection might mean for PwH and their families. AIMS To understand the experiences of PwH and their families of withdrawal from gene therapy and to understand what support mechanisms might be required. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with people with severe haemophilia who consented to take part in a gene therapy study in the UK but either withdrew or were withdrawn before transfection. RESULTS Nine PwH and a family member were invited to this sub-study. Eight participants were recruited: six PwH (five haemophilia A and one haemophilia B) and two family members. Four participants were excluded from a study after consenting but before transfection, having failed to meet all the inclusion criteria; two withdrew after consenting but before transfection due to concerns including duration of factor expression and the time commitment involved in follow-up. The mean age of participants was 40.5 years (range 25-63 years). Two major themes emerged during the interviews: Expectation and loss. CONCLUSIONS PwH have many expectations about the difference gene therapy can make to their lives. Studies show that these expectations may not be fully realised. For those who have either withdrawn or been withdrawn from gene therapy, any expectations they had may now be unachievable. The nature of these expectations and the loss expressed by the participants indicate that support needs to be provided to help them and their families manage it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Fletcher
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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11
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The ethics of gene therapy for hemophilia: a narrative review. J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:413-420. [PMID: 36696181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2022.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is expected to become a promising treatment, and potentially even a cure, for hemophilia. After several years of research, the first gene therapy product has been granted conditional market authorization by the European Union in August 2022. The recent progress in the field also has implications on the ethical aspects of hemophilia gene therapy. Reviews conducted in the 2000s mainly identified questions on the ethics of conducting early-phase clinical trials. However, since then, the knowledge on safety and efficacy has improved, and the field has moved toward clinical application, a phase that has its own ethical aspects. Therefore, we conducted a narrative review to take stock of the ethical aspects of hemophilia gene therapy. Based on our analysis of the literature, we identified 3 ethical themes. The theme Living up to expectations describes the existing hopes for gene therapy and the unlikelihood of the currently approved product becoming a permanent cure. In the theme Psychosocial impacts, we discuss the fear that gene therapy will impact the identity of people with hemophilia and their need for psychosocial support. The theme Costs and access discusses the expected cost-effectiveness of gene therapy and its implications on accessibility worldwide. We conclude that it may be necessary to change the narratives surrounding gene therapy, from describing it as a cure to describing it as one of the many treatments that temporarily relieve symptoms and that there is a need to reevaluate the desirability of gene therapy for hemophilia, given the availability of other treatments.
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Limjoco J, Thornburg CD. Gene Therapy for Hemophilia A: A Mixed Methods Study of Patient Preferences and Shared Decision-Making. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:1093-1105. [PMID: 37102127 PMCID: PMC10123005 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s406894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose As gene therapies for hemophilia are incorporated into clinical practice, shared decision-making (SDM) is recommended for implementation. SDM tools may facilitate informed decision-making for gene therapy and other novel therapies. Objective To inform the development of SDM tools for hemophilia gene therapy. Patients and Methods Men with severe hemophilia were recruited from the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF) Community Voices in Research (CVR). Semi-structured interviews were completed, and the interviews were transcribed verbatim for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results Twenty-five men with severe hemophilia A participated. All participants reported treatment with prophylaxis, nine (36%) on continuous prophylaxis with clotting factor, one (4%) on intermittent prophylaxis with clotting factor, and 15 (60%) on continuous prophylaxis with emicizumab. Ten (40%) indicated that they are excited about gene therapy, 12 (48%) indicated that they are hopeful about gene therapy, one (4%) indicated that they are worried or scared about gene therapy, and one (4%) indicated that they do not have strong feelings about gene therapy. Participants reported engaging Hemophilia Treatment Center, family, and the hemophilia community in their decision-making process. The most reported information needs are efficacy, safety, cost/insurance, mechanism of action, and follow-up. In addition, key information themes that emerged were patient testimonials, hard data and statistics, and comparison to other products. Twenty-two (88%) indicated that a SDM tool would be useful when discussing gene therapy with their hemophilia team. Two indicated that they do their own research, and the tool would not add anything. One needed more information to provide an answer. Conclusion These data highlight the utility of a SDM tool for hemophilia gene therapy and key information needs. Data including comparison to other treatments should be provided along with patient testimonials in a transparent format. Patients will engage the Hemophilia Treatment Center, family, and community members in the decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Limjoco
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Courtney D Thornburg
- Hemophilia and Thrombosis Treatment Center, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Correspondence: Courtney D Thornburg, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, 3020 Children’s Way, MC 5035, San Diego, CA, 92123, USA, Tel +1 858-966-5811, Fax +1 858-966-8035, Email
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Fletcher S, Jenner K, Pembroke L, Holland M, Khair K. The experiences of people with haemophilia and their families of gene therapy in a clinical trial setting: regaining control, the Exigency study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:155. [PMID: 35379267 PMCID: PMC8981747 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02256-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene therapy has the potential to change the life experience of people with haemophilia and family members. Few studies have sought to explore the impact of gene therapy on both individuals and families. The aim of this study was to capture real-life experiences of gene therapy in People with haemophilia and their families. RESULTS Sixteen participants with severe haemophilia (11 haemophilia A, five haemophilia B), mean age 41.4 years (range 23-75 years), took part in a single qualitative interview; ten were accompanied by a family member. Mean time since transfection was 3.56 years (range 1-10 years). Participants saw their involvement in gene therapy as a positive experience, freeing them from the personal burden of haemophilia and furthering treatment options for the wider haemophilia community. However, participants reported being unprepared for the side effects of immunosuppression. Some also reported feeling unsupported and having little control over what was happening as their factor levels became the focus of the process. CONCLUSION The results suggest that strategies need to be put into place to enable PwH fully to understand the process of gene therapy, and thereby make an informed choice as to whether it is a treatment they might wish for themselves. These include early and ongoing education, increased provision of psychosocial support and ongoing qualitative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Fletcher
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, OX3 7LE, UK.
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