Comparative analysis of GMO regulatory requirements for AAV vectors in the EU and Japan focusing on the shedding data and containment measures

IntroductionRecombinant viral-based gene therapy products, such as those incorporating adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), fall under the category of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The European Union (EU) countries and Japan must obtain environmental risk assessment (ERA) approval for the use of GMOs before starting any clinical trials. It has been reported that the development of GMO-containing products in these two regions encounters several regulatory obstacles due to the longer regulatory procedures and document preparation for ERA.Areas coveredIn this article, we comparatively analyzed the ERA document requirements in the EU and Japan for AAV-based recombinant medicinal products to highlight the differences in the context of potential future attempts of convergence. Additionally, we analyzed non-clinical and clinical shedding data requirements, which are key components of ERA reviews in the EU and Japan. Lastly, we compared the containment measures to minimize the spread of GMOs in the environment in the EU and Japan.Expert opinionBased on our comparative analysis, we present several policy recommendations of standardizing and simplifying the application materials and procedures for the ERA regulations on GMOs in the EU and Japan in the mid-, and long-term timeframe to achieve global regulatory convergence.