A Montreal Discovery Giving Cancer Patients Hope
A groundbreaking cancer treatment developed in Montreal is transforming the fight against blood cancers. Known as UM171 cell therapy, this innovative approach is offering patients renewed hope, though it has yet to become available in Canada.
François Lucas Alzate knows the treatment’s power firsthand. First diagnosed with leukemia in 2014, he faced a devastating relapse the following year. Without a bone marrow match, his options looked grim—until doctors suggested UM171.
How UM171 Therapy Works
UM171 begins with stem cells collected from donated umbilical cords. In the lab, those cells multiply with the help of the UM171 molecule. After chemotherapy clears cancer cells, the enhanced stem cells are infused into the patient, much like a blood transfusion.
For Alzate, the results were life-changing. “I am cancer free. The treatment worked well,” he shared.
The Minds Behind the Breakthrough
The therapy was developed at the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC) at Université de Montréal. Lead chemist Anne Marinier calls it nothing short of revolutionary. “It saves lives, so I think it’s a breakthrough,” she said.
Hematologist Guy Sauvageau, another lead investigator, explained the therapy’s unique strength. “About 15 days later, it will reconstitute your entire blood system,” he noted.
Global Progress, Canadian Delays
Since its development in 2014, UM171 has treated about 120 patients worldwide. Recently, the European Commission fast-tracked approval, recognizing its potential to save lives.
However, in Canada, approval remains years away. More trials are needed, and regulatory hurdles mean patients here may wait up to five years before access. Sauvageau hopes Europe’s decision will accelerate the Canadian process.
A Survivor’s Perspective
Now 33, Alzate feels immense gratitude for his second chance at life. “I think it probably saved my life,” he reflected. For him and many others, UM171 represents not just science but survival.
Montreal’s cancer innovation could reshape global treatment, but Canadians still wait for access to this breakthrough.
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