News Summary
The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston has been designated as a Qualified Treatment Center for ZEVASKYN, a groundbreaking gene therapy for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). This designation enhances patient access to innovative treatments, marking a crucial development in the management of this rare and debilitating skin disorder. With the approval of ZEVASKYN, which incorporates the functional COL7A1 gene into a patient’s own skin cells, UTMB reaffirms its commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and collaboration in the region.
UTMB Designated as Qualified Treatment Center for Gene Therapy
Galveston’s University of Texas Medical Branch enhances access to innovative treatment for rare skin disorder.
Houston, TX — The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston has made significant strides in the medical field with its recent designation as a Qualified Treatment Center for ZEVASKYN, a groundbreaking gene therapy developed by Abeona Therapeutics Inc. This development not only signifies a leap in patient care but also highlights the continuing evolution of Texas TX higher education institutions into vital contributors to healthcare innovation. The activation of UTMB as a treatment center will enable expanded access to this essential therapy for individuals suffering from recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), a rare and debilitating skin disorder.
RDEB is characterized by severe, painful wounds that can lead to serious systemic complications, presenting a unique challenge in medical treatment. The introduction of ZEVASKYN, an FDA-approved autologous gene therapy, provides a new beacon of hope for patients in Texas and the Gulf Coast region, emphasizing the important role that educational institutions like UTMB play in tackling critical health issues through research and treatment.
Understanding ZEVASKYN and Its Impact
ZEVASKYN represents a significant advancement in the management of RDEB. The therapy works by incorporating the functional COL7A1 gene into a patient’s own skin cells, enabling them to produce type VII collagen—an essential protein that anchors the epidermal and dermal layers of skin. As a result, patients experience improved healing of their wounds, addressing the underlying defect that characterizes RDEB.
UTMB’s Role in Delivering Innovative Care
UTMB, the home of Texas’s first dermatology department, has long been committed to the treatment and research of skin diseases. The designation as a Qualified Treatment Center for ZEVASKYN not only broadens the scope of services available but also places UTMB at the forefront of cutting-edge therapies. By leveraging its substantial medical knowledge and research capabilities, UTMB enhances patient access to an innovative treatment that was previously difficult to obtain.
Expanding Patient Access Through Collaboration
Abeona Therapeutics Inc. has been actively involved in growing access to its gene therapy treatments for patients nationwide. The inclusion of UTMB in the network of Qualified Treatment Centers is a collaborative effort to ensure that patients have access to essential therapies regardless of their geographical location. Abeona’s patient support program, Abeona Assist, further facilitates this access by providing services such as insurance benefit verification and travel assistance for qualified patients.
Clinical Aspects and Side Effects of ZEVASKYN
ZEVASKYN is administered through a single surgical application and aims to alleviate the painful symptoms of RDEB by repairing the underlying genetic defects. However, like all medical treatments, it is accompanied by potential side effects. Common side effects include procedure-related pain and itching, while there are also serious risks such as allergic reactions and a potential risk of cancer due to the therapy’s mechanism of action. Thus, patient education and careful monitoring are crucial components of the treatment process.
A Future of Hope and Healing
The activation of UTMB as a Qualified Treatment Center for ZEVASKYN represents a promising step forward in specialized care options for patients suffering from RDEB. This initiative not only highlights the University’s dedication to patient-centered care but also underscores the importance of education and research collaboration in influencing public health outcomes. As ZEVASKYN initiates a new chapter in treatment possibilities, the community is encouraged to stay informed on the latest developments and explore available healthcare options both at UTMB and beyond.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Therapy Name | ZEVASKYN |
| Developed By | Abeona Therapeutics Inc. |
| Indication | Treating wounds in patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) |
| FDA Approval | Yes |
| Treatment Center | University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) |
| Location of Treatment Center | Galveston, Texas |
| Mechanism of Action | Incorporates functional COL7A1 gene into patient’s skin cells to produce functional type VII collagen in treated wounds |
| Application Method | Single surgical application |
| Common Side Effects | Procedure-related pain and itching |
| Serious Side Effects | Possible serious allergic reactions; potential risk of cancer development due to therapy’s mechanism of action |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ZEVASKYN?
ZEVASKYN is an FDA-approved autologous gene therapy developed by Abeona Therapeutics Inc. for treating wounds in patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), a rare skin disorder characterized by severe, painful wounds that can lead to systemic complications.
What is the role of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in this treatment?
UTMB has been designated as a Qualified Treatment Center for ZEVASKYN, significantly expanding patient access to this gene therapy across Texas and the Gulf Coast region.
What is recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB)?
RDEB is a rare skin disorder caused by a defect in both copies of the COL7A1 gene, leading to the inability to produce functioning type VII collagen necessary to anchor the dermal and epidermal layers of the skin. This results in fragile skin that blisters easily, creating wounds that may fail to heal.
How does ZEVASKYN work?
ZEVASKYN incorporates the functional COL7A1 gene into a patient’s own skin cells to produce functional type VII collagen in treated wounds. The therapy requires a single surgical application.
What are the potential side effects of ZEVASKYN?
Common side effects include procedure-related pain and itching. Serious allergic reactions are possible, and there is a potential risk of cancer development due to the therapy’s mechanism of action.
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