The 2025 Cell & Gene Therapy Report highlights not only the incredible scientific advances in gene therapy but also the complex challenges that come with them. Beyond breakthroughs in CRISPR and viral vectors, the report emphasizes critical issues such as payer and reimbursement hurdles, patient access, manufacturing scale, and the growing role of oncologists in delivering these therapies (Targeted Oncology). As noted by TechTarget in 2025, systemic gaps (including restrictive prior‑authorization policies, limited infrastructure, and fragmented access pathways) continue to hinder the broad adoption of CGTs. These factors illustrate that the promise of gene therapy is not determined solely by scientific innovation, but it also depends heavily on the systems and infrastructure that bring these treatments to patients.
From a genetics perspective, much of the classroom focus tends to be on the science itself, like how genes can be edited, replaced, or repaired. However, the real-world translation of these therapies requires attention to the broader system. Manufacturing capabilities, regulatory policies, therapy costs, and access barriers all influence whether a groundbreaking treatment can actually reach those who need it. This emphasizes the importance for scientists and healthcare providers to understand not just the molecular techniques, but the practical and systemic factors that impact patient care.
For future healthcare professionals and science communicators, this report is a strong reminder that understanding gene therapy involves more than just “what it does.” Equally important is recognizing “who it reaches” and “how it is paid for.” Considering the health-system factors can inform better policy decisions, guide clinical practice, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Resources
Targeted Oncology. “2025 Cell and Gene Therapy Report Looks at Industry Challenges, Access, and Innovation.” Targeted Oncology, 2025, https://www.targetedonc.com/view/2025-cell-and-gene-therapy-report-looks-at-industry-challenges-how-to-expand-nationally
TechTarget. “Systemic Gaps Hinder Cell and Gene Therapy Adoption, Access.” TechTarget, 2025, https://www.techtarget.com/pharmalifesciences/news/366623704/Systemic-gaps-hinder-cell-and-gene-therapy-adoption-access
You're touching on something that doesn't get enough attention in regular genetics courses. The gap between what's scientifically possible and what's actually accessible to patients. The reimbursement and infrastructure barriers you mentioned are huge, and they're not going away just because science keeps improving. It's a good reminder that CRISPR breakthroughs don't mean much if people can't afford them or if hospitals lack the capacity to administer them. The "who it reaches" and "how it's paid for" framing is spot on for anyone going into healthcare or policy work.
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