Sensorion Makes Strides in Gene Therapy for Hearing Loss

Sensorion Completes First Cohort Enrollment in Audiogene Trial

Sensorion, a pioneering clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on innovative therapies for hearing loss, has announced a significant milestone in its clinical trials. The firm has completed enrollment of patients in the first cohort of the Audiogene Phase 1/2 gene therapy clinical trial.

The recruitment saw three patients included in this first phase, with the recent injection of the SENS-501 gene therapy product completed as planned. The third patient successfully received the therapy, marking a substantial achievement for the company. Throughout the procedure, all treated patients displayed a positive response; there were no serious adverse effects reported following the intra-cochlear administration of the gene therapy product.

Innovative Approach in Treating Hearing Loss

The Audiogene trial represents a groundbreaking approach in the realm of pediatric audiology, focusing on a unique group of young children aged between 6 to 31 months who have not previously undergone cochlear implant procedures. Unlike conventional therapies, the design of Audiogene aims not only to restore hearing but also to help these infants and toddlers develop normal speech abilities. This is particularly essential as early intervention can greatly enhance language development in hearing-impaired children.

CEO's Perspective on Trial Progress

Nawal Ouzren, Chief Executive Officer of Sensorion, expressed her satisfaction with the trial’s progress. She emphasized that achieving this level of patient enrollment within a year of the clinical trial application authorization is a remarkable accomplishment. Ouzren is particularly looking forward to a key opinion leader event scheduled for early 2025, where experts will review and discuss the initial data from the trial.

About the Audiogene Trial

Audiogene’s primary objective is to assess the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of the SENS-501 product in infants diagnosed with OTOF gene-mediated hearing loss. By targeting children in their formative years, when their brain's capacity for plasticity is at its highest, the trial aims to maximize the potential for these children to acquire language skills.

The trial is designed in two phases, featuring a dose escalation followed by an expansion cohort at the determined optimal dosage. Safety remains a critical focus for the initial part, while the auditory brainstem response (ABR) will serve as a primary efficacy endpoint in the subsequent stage, alongside assessments for the new delivery system designed by Sensorion.

Understanding SENS-501 and Its Impact

SENS-501, also known as OTOF-GT, is an advanced gene therapy program aimed at treating congenital deafness caused by mutations in the OTOF (otoferlin) gene. This gene is vital for the relaying of auditory signals, and its dysfunction results in severe hearing loss from birth.

The innovative approach of SENS-501 involves delivering a functional copy of the OTOF gene directly into inner ear hair cells using a viral vector. By reinstating this gene's functionality, the therapy hopes to restore the ability to hear. Families with children suffering from this rare form of genetic deafness hold high hopes for this clinical development.

Collaborative Efforts and Funding Support

The project's development is part of a significant collaboration between Sensorion and key institutions, such as the Necker Enfants Malades Hospital and the Institut Pasteur, under the framework of RHU AUDINNOVE. Financial backing for this innovative research comes from the French National Research Agency, which is keen on fostering future-oriented global health initiatives.

About Sensorion

Sensorion is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical need in hearing loss treatments with an extensive research and development platform. Their focus on understanding the complexities of inner ear diseases has propelled the development of effective therapies.

The company has two promising gene therapy projects targeting hereditary forms of deafness, developed in partnership with the Institut Pasteur. Their ambition extends beyond the current trials, as they also seek to identify biomarkers that can enhance the diagnosis of these auditory disorders.

Beyond gene therapy, Sensorion's clinical stage portfolio includes trials for small molecule treatments for various hearing impairments. One of their notable trials involves SENS-401 (Arazasetron), currently advancing in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study aimed at combating Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sensorion's recent achievement in clinical trials?

Sensorion has successfully completed the enrollment of the first cohort in its Audiogene Phase 1/2 clinical trial, focusing on gene therapy for hearing loss.

Who are the participants in the Audiogene trial?

The trial includes infants and toddlers aged 6 to 31 months who have not previously undergone cochlear implants, focusing on treating a unique demographic.

What is SENS-501?

SENS-501 is a gene therapy product aimed at treating congenital deafness linked to mutations in the OTOF gene, which is critical for hearing function.

What are the expected outcomes of the Audiogene trial?

The trial aims to show safety, tolerability, and efficacy of SENS-501, with hopes of restoring hearing and enabling normal speech development in young children.

How is Sensorion funded in their research activities?

Sensorion's research initiatives have received funding support from the French National Research Agency, promoting innovative solutions in health.

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