United States Approves Cell Therapy for Cancer Patients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday that it has approved the use of a cell therapy produced by Gamida Cell to reduce infection risks in patients undergoing treatment for leukemia, leading to a 46 percent increase in the company's stock. The approval allows the company to launch its first commercial treatment under the name (Omisirge) for patients starting from the age of 12 who are undergoing stem cell transplantation. Before the transplant procedure, patients often undergo radiation therapy or chemotherapy, which can weaken their immune systems and expose them to the risk of severe infections that can sometimes be life-threatening. The company stated earlier that it aims to treat approximately 2,500 patients annually by 2027, but it refrained from commenting on the price at which the treatment will be offered or its availability.