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First Gene Therapy for Childhood Hearing Loss Approved
24 Apr
Summary
- FDA approved the first gene therapy for inherited hearing loss.
- The one-time treatment is for a rare condition affecting up to 50 US babies annually.
- Regeneron will provide the groundbreaking therapy free to US patients.

The US Food and Drug Administration has granted approval for the first-ever gene therapy designed to treat inherited hearing loss. This innovative, one-time treatment targets a rare genetic condition that impacts up to approximately 50 infants born annually in the United States. In clinical trials, the therapy demonstrated remarkable efficacy, significantly improving hearing in a majority of participating children.
Developed by biotechnology firm Regeneron, the therapy, named Otarmeni, is administered via a surgical procedure. The company has committed to providing this life-changing treatment free of charge to patients within the US. This move aims to set a precedent for making advanced biotech innovations accessible to those in need, embodying the potential of scientific advancement to offer profound gifts.