Gene Therapy in Dubai – Advanced Treatment for Genetic Disorders
Gene therapy is a revolutionary approach in modern medicine that aims to treat or prevent diseases by modifying a person’s genes. This cutting-edge treatment is especially promising for genetic disorders like spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), offering hope for patients and families affected by these life-limiting conditions. Our center in Dubai is committed to delivering safe and effective gene therapy options tailored to each patient’s needs.
What is Gene Therapy?
Gene therapy in Dubai involves introducing, removing, or altering genetic material within a patient’s cells to correct faulty genes or make beneficial changes. The goal is to address the root cause of genetic disorders rather than just manage the symptoms. There are several types of gene therapy approaches, including...
Gene replacement therapy
Replacing a missing or faulty gene with a healthy copy.
Gene editing
Precisely correcting mutations at the DNA level using technologies like CRISPR.
Gene silencing
Switching off the expression of a harmful gene.
Gene therapy is administered using viral or non-viral vectors that deliver the therapeutic gene into the body, often via a one-time infusion.
Conditions Treated with Gene Therapy
Gene therapy has shown remarkable success in treating various inherited disorders, including
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Treatments like Zolgensma provide a functional copy of the SMN1 gene to restore motor neuron function.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Ongoing research and trials are developing gene therapies that enable the body to produce functional dystrophin protein.
Inherited retinal diseases, thalassemia, sickle cell disease,
and other rare conditions are also being targeted by gene therapy solutions.
Benefits and Considerations
Potential one-time treatment for lifelong results
Targets the root cause of the disease
Reduces or eliminates the need for ongoing medications or surgeries
Improves quality of life and long-term outcomes
Considerations and limitations
Not all genetic disorders currently have approved gene therapies
High cost and need for specialized infrastructure
Potential immune responses or side effects
Long-term effects still being studied in ongoing clinical trials
We ensure a thorough evaluation and counseling process for every patient to determine eligibility and discuss risks, benefits, and expectations
Gene Therapy Process and Treatment at Our Dubai Center
At our state-of-the-art medical facility in Dubai, we offer a streamlined and safe approach to gene therapy:
Genetic testing and diagnosis to confirm eligibility
Pre-treatment evaluations including cardiac, respiratory, and immune assessments
Gene therapy administration under the care of a multidisciplinary team
Post-treatment monitoring for side effects and effectiveness
Family support and counseling throughout the treatment journey
We are proud to be among the few specialized centers in the region offering access to advanced gene therapy treatments for children and families impacted by serious genetic conditions, led by Dr. Vivek Mundada, a renowned pediatric neurologist in Dubai.