Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-18-2024
Identifier
DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03019-x; PMCID: PMC10797739
Abstract
Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder of monoamine neurotransmitter synthesis that presents with a range of symptoms, including motor dysfunction and limited attainment of developmental motor milestones. The approval of eladocagene exuparvovec, a gene therapy for AADC deficiency with demonstrated efficacy for motor improvements, now expands the range of motor outcomes possible for patients with this disorder. However, recommendations and guidelines for therapy following treatment with gene therapy are lacking. To ensure patients can reach their full potential following treatment with gene therapy, it is essential they receive rehabilitation therapies designed specifically with their impairments and goals in mind. Therefore, we highlight specific rehabilitative needs of patients following gene therapy and propose a set of recommendations for the post-treatment period based on collective experiences of therapists, physicians, and caregivers treating and caring for patients with AADC deficiency who have been treated with gene therapy. These recommendations include a focus on periods of intensive therapy, facilitating active movements, training for functional abilities, cognitive and communication training, parent/caregiver empowerment, collaboration between therapists and caregivers to develop in-home programs, and the incorporation of supplemental forms of therapy that patients and their families may find more enjoyable and engaging. Many of these rehabilitative strategies may be employed prior to gene therapy. However, these recommendations will be valuable for therapists, caregivers, and wider treatment teams as they prepare for the post-treatment journey with these patients. Furthermore, the considerations and recommendations presented here may prove beneficial outside the AADC deficiency community as gene therapies and other treatments are developed and approved for other rare diseases.
Journal Title
Orphanet J Rare Dis
Volume
19
Issue
1
First Page
17
Last Page
17
MeSH Keywords
Humans; Amino Acid Metabolism, Inborn Errors; Aromatic-L-Amino-Acid Decarboxylases; Genetic Therapy; Amino Acids
Keywords
AADC deficiency; Fine motor development; Gene therapy; Gross motor development; Neurotransmitter disorder; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation outcomes
Recommended Citation
Lee HM, Mercimek-Andrews S, Horvath G, et al. A position statement on the post gene-therapy rehabilitation of aromatic I-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2024;19(1):17. Published 2024 Jan 18. doi:10.1186/s13023-024-03019-x
Comments
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Publisher's Link:https://ojrd.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13023-024-03019-x