Ground-breaking Treatment
Opal Sandy, an 18-month-old toddler, has become one of the youngest individuals in the world to undergo a revolutionary gene therapy to treat genetic deafness. Born with total deafness caused by a faulty OTOF gene, Opal received a working copy of the gene in a trial conducted by Cambridge University, leading to her ability to hear for the first time in her life.
Mind-Blowing Results
The results of the gene therapy have been described as “mind-blowing” by Opal’s family. Her parents, Jo and James Sandy, were astonished when Opal began responding to sounds just weeks after the 16-minute surgical procedure. Her progress has been remarkable, with doctors noting that her hearing in the treated ear is approaching normal levels.
Future Prospects
Opal’s successful treatment paves the way for potential advancements in gene therapy for congenital deafness. The ongoing Chord trial, which involves multiple countries, aims to assess the safety and efficacy of this groundbreaking approach. The promising results from Opal’s case offer hope to many others affected by genetic hearing impairments.