FDA approves gene therapy for MPS IIIA - Summary - MDSpire
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FDA approves gene therapy for MPS IIIA

  • By

  • Kathryn Wighton

  • September 18, 2026

  • 2 min

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Objective:

To provide a new treatment option for pediatric patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA), a rare inherited disease.

Approach:
  • Treatment Description: Rebisufligene etisparvovec-hopf (Fayuvi) is administered as a single intravenous infusion using modified, noninfectious adeno-associated virus serotype 9 to introduce a functional copy of the SGSH gene.
  • Study Design: The FDA evaluated the safety and effectiveness in an open-label, single-arm, multicenter study assessing cognitive outcomes in pediatric patients aged 2 to 5 years.
Key Findings:
  • Cognitive function remained stable or improved following treatment compared to an untreated historical control cohort.
  • Adverse reactions reported in more than 5% of patients included increased liver enzymes, amylase, nausea and vomiting, fever, decreased appetite, and reductions in white blood cell and platelet counts.
  • Thrombotic microangiopathy is a noted safety warning.
Interpretation:

The treatment allows for the production of sulfamidase, reducing heparan sulfate accumulation in the brain and body.

Limitations:
  • Long-term risk of tumor development due to genomic integration of the introduced genetic material.
  • Administration must occur in a healthcare setting where infusion reactions can be managed.
Conclusion:

Rebisufligene etisparvovec received Orphan Drug, Fast Track, and Breakthrough Therapy designations from the FDA.

Sources:

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