Dalhousie University professor co-authors medical breakthrough – CTV
July 11, 2025
There is new hope for a Nova Scotia man thanks to groundbreaking gene therapy research from a Dalhousie University professor.
Ryan Deveau suffers from Fabry disease, a rare disorder that leaves the body unable to produce the enzyme that breaks down fatty materials.
Deveau says he’s faced a heavy load of health issues living with the disease.
“Because I don’t produce that enzyme, there is a build up around certain organs like my heart, my kidneys and potentially my brain that my body can’t break down,” said Deveau, 44, who has lived with the disease since he was young.
Fabry disease can also cause major organ damage and a shortened lifespan. Due to the health risks involved in his everyday life, Deveau usually received enzyme replacement therapy, which required routine trips to a specialist.
Then he met Dr. Michael West from Dalhousie University, who co-authored research on gene therapy designed to help people suffering from the disease.
