A major milestone has been recognised in the field of inherited retinal diseases.
Dr. Jean Bennett, Dr. Albert Maguire and Dr. Katherine High have been awarded the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for their work advancing gene therapy.
Their research led to the development of Luxturna, the first FDA-approved gene therapy for an inherited retinal disease. Beyond one treatment, this work helped demonstrate that targeted genetic approaches can restore vision.
This recognition reflects decades of work, moving from early research through to real-world impact for patients, and marks a turning point for the field.
Today, with a growing number of clinical trials underway, the momentum behind gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases continues to build.
Image Credit: Breakthrough Prize Foundation Left to Right: Dr Albert M. Maguire, Dr Jan Bennett and Dr Katherine High at the Breakthrough Prizes.
We are proud to work alongside leaders in this space and to see this progress recognised.
Links:
Guardian article: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/apr/19/the-oscar-of-science-awarded-to-scientists-behind-genetic-treatment-that-restores-lost-vision-win
Learn more: https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/penn-chop-team-awarded-breakthrough-prize-for-blindness-gene-therapy
