Technology

The deadly saga of the controversial gene therapy Elevidys

Source

MIT Technology Review

Published

Jul 25, 2025

TL;DR

AI Generated

The gene therapy Elevidys, approved for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has been linked to the deaths of two teenagers, sparking controversy over its efficacy and safety. Despite FDA approval, the drug failed to show significant improvement in patient outcomes and even led to fatal outcomes. Sarepta Therapeutics, the drug's manufacturer, faced backlash and FDA scrutiny, resulting in a temporary halt in Elevidys shipments. The DMD community is left grappling with disappointment and concern over the drug's risks and accessibility, highlighting the complex landscape of medical treatments for rare genetic disorders.

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