Gene Therapy

The field of gene therapy is changing the face of healthcare. Advances in knowledge from many generations of scientists have led us to a new exciting reality – rather than treating the symptoms of single-gene conditions, we can now deliver lifelong cures. A single infusion of engineered viral vector or gene-modified cells has the potential to permanently change the health of a patient, potentially sparing them from a lifetime of battling their disease. Gene therapy works by adding an intact gene to replace one that is nonfunctional, defective, or introduces a mechanism to inactivate a broken gene.

UC Davis Gene Therapy Center

The UC Davis Gene Therapy Center brings together a uniquely comprehensive and established interdisciplinary network of experts and resources to lead the field of gene therapy through research, manufacturing, training and policy.

Our team based approach leverages the expertise from an array of sources across our campus including the Schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Genome Center, California National Primate Research Center, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical Center, Stem Cell Program and MIND Institute.

We offer expertise and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment including one of the largest university based Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facilities and a Viral Vector Core.

We go beyond discovery and production, offering a dedicated Regulatory Core, Quality Control Testing Laboratory and Alpha Stem Cell Clinics to provide everything needed to usher gene therapy products through the complex FDA approval pipeline for clinical trials.

The UC Davis Gene Therapy Center was launched to expand upon a proven platform established by our Institute for Regenerative Cures which was funded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine in 2008 and related long-standing capabilities and resources.

Target Disorders

The focus of our gene therapy work targets genetically linked disorders that can potentially be treated through gene replacement, editing, or augmentation. Specific targets include:

• Blood diseases
• Cancer, through developing novel immunotherapies
• Immune system disorders
• Inflammatory illnesses
• Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders

Working with Us

We are dedicated to helping humans and animals live better lives by offering new treatments to these complex, but addressable genetic diseases. If you are interested in partnering with us or using our services, please send an email to genetherapy@ucdavis.edu.