Cell Production Unit of the CHUM at CRCHUM

Localization

1000 R. Saint-Denis
Montréal, QC H2X0C1

Expertise that turns science into hope

The Cell Production Unit (UPC) of the CHUM and its research centre, the CRCHUM, is unique in Quebec. It offers a new generation of personalized therapy for advanced cancers through the infiltration of T lymphocytes.

Our Purpose

Providing patients with renewed hope, grounded in Quebec’s recognized leadership in cellular therapy.

How?

By producing GMP-compliant cellular therapies in Quebec, including Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (better known as TIL), a next-generation immunotherapy.

What do we mean by GMP cellular therapies?

GMP cellular therapies are treatments made from living cells and produced under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which are rigorous rules that guarantee the product’s safety, purity, and reliability before it can be given to patients.

Why?

20,000 people in Quebec suffer from solid cancers that no longer respond to standard treatments. Their only options: palliative care or participation in clinical trials.

In Canada, TIL cellular therapy is still underdeveloped, and the number of studies remains very low.

In Quebec, the CHUM and its research centre (CRCHUM) want to change that. They aim to become a recognized TIL cellular therapy centre and offer patients the most promising TIL cellular products.

THREE COMPLEMENTARY DIRECTIONS

The CHUM and CRCHUM Cell Production Unit works closely with a preclinical research group that develops and improves new TIL approaches before moving to manufacturing. Although the Cell Production Unit is autonomous and GMP-compliant, it is part of a Canadian network that brings together other GMP manufacturers and academic partners to strengthen national capacity in cellular therapies.

High-Level Cell Production Capabilities

CHUM is currently the only center in Quebec with expertise in TIL cell production and patient treatment using this approach.

In May 2024, CHUM was designated as a Reference Center for Immunocellular Therapy by the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

Dr. Turcotte’s team was the first in Canada to acquire a clinical-grade cell sorter. This equipment enabled the development of a cell product composed of TILs that are more reactive to tumors and personalized for each patient.

Specialists focused on achieving more

Hematologists, oncologists, surgeons, nurses specialized in cell infusion, quality control experts, cell production technicians, data managers, and cancer immunology researchers are gathered at CHUM to test and improve the effectiveness of cancer immunocellular therapy.