Gene therapy in neuronopathic lysosomal storage disorders

Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of multisystem monogenic conditions caused mostly by enzyme deficiencies which disrupt lysosomal functioning. Those which result in neuronal dysfunction are considered ‘neuronopathic’. These neurodegenerative conditions, while individually rare, are collectively not uncommon, and are attractive targets for gene and cell-based therapies. In this review we describe the current landscape of such therapies in this group of disorders, where the more severe phenotypes manifest in children. We describe the conditions, the principles of cell therapy and gene therapy, and compare AAV and lentiviral approaches. This is a rapidly evolving area of medicine, and we highlight progress made, and the challenges that are ahead in bringing these therapies to all patients. Throughout, we offer real-world insight into delivering these therapies and suggest a way forward for the future; utilising combined therapies to bridge the obligate delays and increasing collaborative working practices in therapeutic development between clinicians, academics and industry.