In this poster presented at ASGCT 2026, Philipp Beck explores how formulation optimization can reduce vector loss during direct AAV delivery to the brain.
Convection-enhanced delivery uses long, ultra-thin cannulas to administer gene therapies into highly localized regions of the central nervous system. While this approach enables precise dosing, the large surface area inside the cannula can cause substantial adsorption of AAV particles, leading to significant vector loss before the dose reaches the target tissue.
The team evaluated clinically relevant AAV formulations and demonstrated that adding low concentrations of commonly used surfactants—including Poloxamer 188, Polysorbate 20, and Polysorbate 80—can markedly improve recovery and reduce dose variability during cannula administration.
The findings highlight the importance of formulation development for CNS-directed gene therapies and provide a practical strategy to improve dosing accuracy before entering toxicology and clinical studies.
Learn more about Ascend’s formulation development capabilities for AAV and other advanced therapy products.
