Towards personalized therapies for genetic disorders of surfactant dysfunction

Abstract

Genetic disorders of surfactant dysfunction are a rare cause of chronic, progressive or refractory respiratory failure in term and preterm infants. This review explores genetic mechanisms underpinning surfactant dysfunction, highlighting specific surfactant-associated genes including SFTPB, SFTPC, ABCA3, and NKX2.1. Pathogenic variants in these genes contribute to a range of clinical presentations and courses, from neonatal hypoxemic respiratory failure to childhood interstitial lung disease and even adult-onset pulmonary fibrosis. This review emphasizes the importance of early recognition, thorough phenotype assessment, and assessment of variant functionality as essential prerequisites for treatments including lung transplantation. We explore emerging treatment options, including personalized pharmacological approaches and gene therapy strategies. In conclusion, this comprehensive review offers valuable insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of genetic disorders of surfactant dysfunction, genetic fundamentals, available and emerging therapeutic options, and underscores the need for further research to develop personalized therapies for affected infants and children.

Keywords: Gene therapy; Genetic deficiency; Infants; Lung transplant; Neonates; Surfactant.