Price Battles Jeopardize Access to Gene Therapies in Europe

Gene therapy makers are concerned about the profitability of their treatments in Europe, while patients fear being left behind. Bluebird Bio's gene therapy, Zynteglo, was approved in Europe in 2019 for the treatment of beta thalassemia. The therapy has shown promising results in clinical trials, offering the potential for a life free of blood transfusions. However, the high cost of gene therapies and uncertainties surrounding reimbursement have raised concerns about patient access and the financial viability of these treatments in Europe.