Maria Cancio, MD

In addition to caring for patients in the hospital, I conduct research that aims to advance the field of stem cell transplantation. I fulfill that commitment in my capacity as principal investigator and co-investigator of several MSK and multicenter transplant and gene therapy clinical trials being conducted in the United States and internationally. I design treatment regimens with the aim of reducing the side effects of stem cell transplantation by using less toxic chemotherapy combinations and precision dosing. In another approach, we modify donor stem cells by removing potentially harmful cells that could cause a complication called graft-versus-host disease.

I care for patients with hemoglobin disorders, such as sickle cell disease, and collaborate with other investigators to find a cure using gene therapy. I am also invested in finding ways to increase the success of transplantation and decreasing long-term effects for patients with Fanconi anemia and other bone marrow failure syndromes. Lastly, my research includes studies to reduce severe transplant-related complications, such as microangiopathy (a disorder of small blood vessels).

I take pride in listening to my patients and treating each one as an individual. I continually strive to provide excellent care that is backed by the findings of medical research and enhanced by multidisciplinary support. I find nothing more gratifying than the lifelong bonds I have with my patients and their families. Even in the most difficult situations, looking for the opportunity for a cure together is priceless.

In my spare time, I like to attend sports events with my husband and son, read, learn about other cultures, support arts, and travel with family and friends.