Emily Kramer-Golinkoff, a cystic fibrosis patient with a rare mutation, highlights the disparity in treatment access for those with uncommon genetic variations. While advancements in genetic therapies offer hope for many, individuals like Kramer-Golinkoff, who don't respond to common treatments, face limited options and rely on experimental gene therapies. Drug companies prioritize common mutations due to market forces, creating "mutational discrimination." However, charities and researchers are actively developing mutation-agnostic gene therapies promising treatments regardless of the specific mutation, offering a beacon of hope for patients like Kramer-Golinkoff.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.