STAT+: In wake of boy’s death, gene editing experts dissect Huidagene’s decisions

Reaction veers from ‘not sure it was unreasonable to try’ to dismay over ‘garbage data’ Adobe Jason is a general assignment reporter, with particular focus on genetic medicine and rare disease. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at JasonMast.77. Three months before a young boy died in Huidagene’s gene editing trial last year, the company’s former CEO Alvin Luk presented its early data at the American Society for Gene and Cell Therapy’s Presidential Symposium, one of the field’s biggest stages. STAT asked several experts in gene editing and muscle disorders to review video of the presentation. They came away divided — often starkly — on the quality of the company’s science and the wisdom of the approach. “I’m not impressed,” said Dongsheng Duan, who has spent a decade studying gene editing for Duchenne at the University of Missouri, in an email. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the pharma industry — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe General Assignment Reporter Jason is a general assignment reporter, with particular focus on genetic medicine and rare disease. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at JasonMast.77.