Gene therapy for cystic fibrosis may be possible by 2020, scientists say

Although results of first trial were ‘modest and variable’, second bigger trial aims to combine gene therapy with other treatments for longer term benefits

A treatment to help those with cystic fibrosis may be available within five years, say scientists who who have been working for decades to develop a gene therapy for the disease.

The results of a year-long trial showed only a small and variable improvement in the lung capacity of those children and adults who took part, but scientists now believe they have proved gene therapy is possible in treating cystic fibrosis. With more work, they say that by the end of the decade it will at least be possible to help stabilise patients.

It is the world’s first demonstration that repeated gene therapy can improve lung function

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