Progress and challenges in intrathecal gene therapy for neurological disorders

Gene therapy for neurological disorders is a rapidly evolving field with many preclinical studies and some successful clinical trials. Selectivity of cell specific targeting, efficiency and safety of administration route, and vector dosing are some of the most challenging aspects that need to be addressed for a successful treatment approach. In clinical practice, intravenous delivery is the most commonly used route of administration of viral vectors but adverse events led to the development of intrathecal delivery as a safer delivery method. Preclinical studies confirm the efficacy of intrathecally injected viral vectors for targeting both the central and peripheral nervous system at lower doses than those systemically-administered, limiting toxicity. Clinical applications of intrathecal gene therapy confirm efficacy and safety in patients. Further preclinical studies are needed to improve current vector capsid and payload technologies, while insights from ongoing clinical trials help to optimise patient selection and immunosuppressive protocols.