Gene therapy for choroideremia: progress, potential and pitfalls

IntroductionChoroideremia is a rare disease with a significant disease burden. Gene-supplementation methods for choroideremia gene therapy have been the most successful form of gene therapy thus far.Areas coveredThe aim of the current review is to provide an overview of current progress of gene therapy trials to date, with a focus on potential and pitfalls of such trials. We propose a novel end point that may be clinically meaningful for obtaining regulatory approval in subsequent clinical trials. Additionally, we offer recommendations for further optimization of surgical techniques.Expert opinionLessons learnt from this phase 3 clinical trial, encompassing optimal vector design, delivery techniques, patient selection criteria, and long-term safety profiles can be used in the development of treatments for polygenic retinal disorders, which may necessitate a more nuanced approach due to genetic complexity.