Biopharmaceuticals and medical sciences | Online ISSN 3064-9226
REVIEWS   (Open Access)

Targeted Therapies for Rare Diseases: Innovations in Gene Therapy, Stem Cell Treatments, and Precision Medicine

Anton Yuryev 1, John A. Catanzaro 2*

+ Author Affiliations

Journal of Precision Biosciences 3 (1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/biosciences.3120041

Submitted: 20 January 2021 Revised: 07 April 2021  Published: 08 April 2021 


Abstract

The global prevalence of rare diseases is on the rise, with approximately 400 million individuals affected worldwide. These conditions, often treated with orphan drugs, pose significant challenges due to their limited availability, high costs, and the complexity of treatment. As research and funding for rare diseases increase, pharmaceutical companies are making strides in developing novel therapeutic approaches. This review examines the recent advancements in targeted therapies for rare diseases, with a focus on gene therapy, stem cell therapy, small nucleic acid drugs, enzyme replacement therapies (ERT), and exosome-based technologies. Special attention is given to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in accelerating drug discovery, facilitating the identification of novel treatments, and optimizing personalized therapies. Clinical case studies, such as those addressing cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, are presented to highlight the transformative impact of these therapies on rare disease management. Additionally, the review discusses the integration of gene and stem cell therapies in treating the root causes of genetic disorders, moving beyond symptom management. It also underscores the importance of collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies to overcome the challenges of rare disease treatment and improve patient outcomes. Despite significant progress, the review concludes by emphasizing the need for equitable access to these therapies to reduce healthcare disparities, ultimately advancing the future of personalized medicine and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with rare diseases.

Keywords: Rare Disease, Orphan Drugs, New Drug Development, Gene Therapy.

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