Updated: Sep 18
Medically reviewed by ChinaCureLink Team
Table of Content
Introduction
Patients researching inherited retinal disease caused by RDH12 gene mutations may encounter RDH12 gene therapy as an emerging treatment approach. In China, RDH12 gene therapy is being explored through clinical research and licensed medical-use pathways in the Hainan Boao Lecheng Pilot Zone, rather than through nationwide availability. This guide explains what the treatment is, where it may be accessed, its estimated cost, and what international patients should know before pursuing an assessment.
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What Is RDH12 Gene Therapy?
RDH12 gene therapy is an AAV-based genetic therapy being developed for inherited retinal disease associated with RDH12 gene mutations. The product identified for this treatment is IVB107 (PUMCH-E101) injection solution, which uses a self-developed AAV.IVT18 vector.
The treatment is administered through an intravitreal injection, meaning the injection is delivered into the eye. The route is described as a non-traditional subretinal injection approach.
Clinical research and publicly available clinical registries and corporate disclosures form the current basis for the treatment's development and access status. Efficacy and safety remain under evaluation.
Is RDH12 Gene Therapy China Available?
RDH12 gene therapy China access is currently associated with clinical research and licensed medical use in the Hainan Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone.
The treatment is not yet available nationwide in China. Its presence within a licensed Lecheng pathway should therefore be understood as a specific pilot-zone access route rather than general national approval.
The treatment is classified as a moderate- to high-risk medical technology. International patients considering this pathway should undergo medical assessment before making travel arrangements.
Is RDH12 Gene Therapy China Nationwide Approved?
No. The treatment is not yet available nationwide. Its current access is connected to clinical research and licensed use in the Lecheng pilot zone. Pilot-zone access and national approval are separate regulatory statuses.
Where Is RDH12 Gene Therapy China Offered?
The treatment is associated with the following hospitals:
Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan Ophthalmology Center
Hainan Boao Eye Hospital
Hainan Haikong Le City Hospital (West China Le City Hospital of Sichuan University)
Technical support is provided by Beijing InnoVive Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd.
The treatment product is IVB107 (PUMCH-E101) injection solution, using the self-developed AAV.IVT18 vector.
Who May Be Eligible for RDH12 Gene Therapy China?
The treatment is intended for the genetic indication of inherited retinal disease associated with RDH12 gene mutations. Detailed patient-level eligibility criteria, including specific clinical thresholds or disease-stage requirements, are not detailed in the available treatment information.
Because efficacy and safety remain under evaluation and the treatment is subject to clinical research or licensed Lecheng use, an individual assessment is necessary before treatment can be considered.
Final eligibility is determined by the treating medical team after a face-to-face consultation and review of the patient's medical records.
How Much Does RDH12 Gene Therapy China Cost?
The estimated cost is ¥480,000 (approximately US$71,400) per eye. The USD figure uses a reference exchange rate of about ¥6.72 per US$1.
The stated price does not necessarily include consultation, diagnostic testing, hospitalization, translation or coordination services, or international travel. Patients should confirm exactly what the quoted treatment price covers before making travel arrangements.
Confirm final pricing directly with the hospital.
Why International Patients May Consider RDH12 Gene Therapy China
For some international patients with an RDH12-associated inherited retinal disease, access to a specialized genetic therapy pathway may be worth discussing with an ophthalmology or genetics specialist.
China's Lecheng pilot-zone framework provides a specific route for exploring certain medical technologies that are not yet broadly available nationwide. However, access does not establish that the treatment is more effective than other approaches, and available efficacy and safety evidence remains under evaluation.
Patients can use a specialist assessment to understand the treatment pathway, medical eligibility requirements, potential risks, and alternatives before deciding whether international travel is appropriate.
How ChinaCureLink Can Help Patients Access This Treatment
We help international patients explore available treatment options and facilitate communication with appropriate medical specialists. Patients should discuss potential benefits, risks, eligibility, and alternatives directly with qualified physicians. ChinaCureLink does not represent or endorse the treatment technology, manufacturer, or hospital.
Case review: We collect relevant medical history and inherited retinal disease-management records to help determine whether a case is appropriate for physician review.
Hospital coordination: We help connect patients with the treating team at Sun Yat-sen University Zhongshan Ophthalmology Center, Hainan Boao Eye Hospital, and Hainan Haikong Le City Hospital (West China Le City Hospital of Sichuan University) in China for an initial assessment.
Online consultation before travel: Patients can discuss potential eligibility, the procedure, and expected next steps with the medical team remotely before committing to international travel.
Coordination support: Depending on the case, this can include translation assistance, appointment scheduling, and logistics coordination.
Considering RDH12 Gene Therapy China?
Before planning travel, speak with a qualified specialist to determine whether the treatment is appropriate for your condition and whether you meet the medical eligibility requirements. ChinaCureLink can help international patients arrange a specialist review and explore the treatment pathway in China. [Request a Medical Review / Speak With a Specialist]
Get a Second Opinion Before Fly to China
For suitable cases, ChinaCureLink can then coordinate an online consultation with the specialist to discuss the technical treatment details directly. The purpose is to help the patient understand which treatment option and which specialist center may be most appropriate before making an international treatment decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is RDH12 gene therapy available in China?
Yes, RDH12 gene therapy is associated with clinical research and licensed medical use in the Hainan Boao Lecheng Pilot Zone. It is not yet available nationwide.
How much does RDH12 gene therapy cost in China?
The estimated cost is ¥480,000 (approximately US$71,400) per eye. Confirm final pricing and the scope of included services directly with the hospital.
Who may qualify for RDH12 gene therapy in China?
The treatment is associated with inherited retinal disease caused by RDH12 gene mutations. Detailed patient-level eligibility criteria are not specified, so final eligibility requires assessment by the treating medical team.
How is RDH12 gene therapy administered?
IVB107 (PUMCH-E101) is administered through an intravitreal injection. The treatment uses a self-developed AAV.IVT18 vector.
About ChinaCureLink
ChinaCureLink helps patients across the world access the best cancer treatment at China's top hospitals, without the delays, language barriers, and administrative confusion that typically come with seeking care abroad.
We connect patients directly with China's top cancer hospitals, ensuring that from the first case submission through to treatment and follow-up, every step is guided, translated, and coordinated by a team experienced in cross-border patient care.
ChinaCureLink is proudly affiliated with Medebound HEALTH — founded by US physicians, with over 10 years of experience and more than 3,000 patients served worldwide, Medebound HEALTH is recognized by Forbes and it is one of the most trusted patient cross-border concierge service company across North America and the Asia Pacific.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical or financial advice. Treatment eligibility, protocols, and costs vary by individual case — confirm specifics with a coordinator and treating physician before making any decisions.