Lifeboat Foundation

Gene therapy is not alone in commanding staggering sums, particularly when it comes to treatments for rare diseases. Soliris, a drug that treats a condition called paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria that attacks red blood cells, can cost up to $700,000 a year, while Elaprase, used in the treatment of Hunter syndrome, costs $500,000 a year.

Spark Therapeutics says ‘responsible price’ for Luxturna gene therapy ensures access for patients with retinal defect.