Hope in a Dose: A Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Podcast
Welcome to Hope in a Dose—the podcast where we explore the science, strategy, and stories behind the therapies redefining what’s possible. Designed for CGT innovators, this series helps you move smarter, faster, and with greater operational confidence.
Across each episode, we unpack the real-world challenges sponsors face today: selecting truly CGT-capable sites, navigating early-phase risk, activating global trials in rare populations, and demonstrating meaningful clinical impact.
Hosted by Lousie Kearney Head of Cell and Gene Therapy, Strategy and Delivery at Fortrea, a seasoned leader with decades of experience guiding emerging biotechs.
Hope in a Dose equips CGT innovators, clinical sites, and Principal Investigators with practical tools to navigate the unique complexities of advanced therapy development.
Episode 1: Breaking Ground: What Makes CGT Trials Different
Discover what sets cell and gene therapy (CGT) clinical trials apart. From “one-and-done” treatments to complex logistics and evolving regulations, our first episode of this podcast series explores the unique challenges and transformative potential of CGT studies. Join us as we dive into science, strategy, and stories behind hope in a dose.
- Host: Louise Kearney, Head of Cell and Gene Therapy, Strategy and Delivery at Fortrea
- Participants: Darby Thomas, Senior Scientific Director for Cell and Gene Therapies, Fortrea
References:
Episode 2 : CGT in Pediatric Patient Population
Today we're diving into one of the most exciting frontiers in medicine: cell and gene therapy for pediatric diseases. Why is it so important? Part of the answer lies in the fact that cell and gene therapy offers something extraordinary: a cure, not just symptom management. In this episode hear from leading experts about the science, challenges, and human impact of pediatric CGT clinical trials.
Join us as we discuss the evolving landscape, regulatory considerations, and the importance of community support in transforming lives.
- Host: Louise Kearney, Head of Cell and Gene Therapy, Strategy and Delivery at Fortrea
- Participants: Isabella Presch, Pediatric Clinical Research and Advanced Therapies
Listen now to “Hope in a Dose” and learn how science is turning hope into reality for children and families worldwide.
References:
- World's First Patient Treated with Personalized CRISPR Gene Editing Therapy at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. May 15, 2025. https://www.chop.edu/news/worlds-first-patient-treated-personalized-crispr-gene-editing-therapy-childrens-hospital
- Interventions for Parental Anxiety in Preparation for Pediatric Surgery: A Narrative Review. Santapuram, P., Stone, A.L., Walden, R.L., Alexander, L. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8623601/
- Pioneering Progress for Rare Lives: Cell and Gene Therapy Trials in Pediatric Rare Disease Populations | Fortrea
- The impact of rare diseases on the quality of life in paediatric patients: current status. Dumbuya, J.S., Zeng, C., Deng, L., et al. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11973084/