This week, we had the privilege of attending the geneTIGA Annual Meeting in Berlin, accompanied by the entire consortium. It was a fantastic opportunity to present the progress we’ve made over the past year and to strengthen our shared commitment to innovation in kidney health.

The geneTIGA project seeks to develop a pioneering cell therapy based on genome-edited T cells with redirected specificity to address IgA nephropathy (IgAN)—the most common glomerulonephritis and a leading cause of end-stage renal disease. This therapy could also provide a blueprint for tackling other diseases with selective B-cell pathogenesis, such as IgA myeloma, rheumatoid arthritis, and conditions involving other immunoglobulin classes like IgG4.

While the scientific advancements of geneTIGA are groundbreaking, our role is to ensure that patient involvement remains at the heart of the project. We are committed to fostering collaboration between researchers and the patient community, ensuring that their voices inform and guide the research process. This approach is critical to building trust and ensuring the therapies developed are impactful and aligned with real patient needs.

During the meeting, we also introduced IGAN Friends, our new initiative aimed at creating a supportive network for individuals affected by IgA nephropathy. This project underscores our commitment to empowering patients and strengthening community ties.