The Morning Edition The ‘remarkable breakthrough’ made for Huntington’s disease
Sep 29, 2025
Professor Julie Stout, a leading neuroscientist at Monash University’s Turner Institute, discusses a groundbreaking gene therapy trial for Huntington’s disease. She explains how this innovative approach dramatically slows progression by reducing harmful protein levels in the brain. Julie shares insights on the personal and social devastations of the disease, the trial's encouraging 75% slowing of symptoms, and the path to potential therapy access in Australia. Her enthusiasm highlights both the promise and the challenges ahead in treating this cruel condition.
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What Huntington’s Disease Is
- Huntington's is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease that affects movement, cognition and mood across the body and brain.
- Professor Julie Stout explains symptoms include uncontrollable movements, cognitive decline and psychiatric changes progressing over time.
Midlife Onset Magnifies Harm
- Huntington's often begins in people's 30s and 40s, making its impact on careers and families especially devastating.
- Julie Stout highlights that onset in midlife steals years when people are raising children and building careers.
Uncertain Prevalence In Australia
- Australia lacks a complete national prevalence study for Huntington's, but estimates suggest about 10,000 people may be affected when counting all gene carriers and symptomatic individuals.
- Julie Stout notes ongoing efforts to better quantify national numbers.