Gelsinger

Definition

Jesse Gelsinger was the first person publicly identified as having died in a clinical trial for gene therapy. His case significantly impacted the field of gene therapy, leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jesse Gelsinger suffered from ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, a genetic disorder affecting the urea cycle.
2. He participated in an adenovirus-based gene therapy clinical trial at the University of Pennsylvania in 1999.
3. Gelsinger's death was caused by a severe immune response to the adenoviral vector used for gene delivery.
4. His case led to a temporary halt and reassessment of gene therapy trials worldwide.
5. The incident underscored the importance of informed consent and rigorous safety protocols in clinical trials.

Review Questions

• What genetic disorder did Jesse Gelsinger suffer from?
• What type of vector was used in Jesse Gelsinger’s gene therapy trial?
• How did Jesse Gelsinger's death impact the field of gene therapy?

Related terms

Adenoviral Vector: A virus modified to deliver therapeutic genes into cells.

Informed Consent: A process ensuring that patients understand risks and benefits before participating in clinical trials.

Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency (OTC): A genetic disorder affecting ammonia detoxification in the liver.