Introduction
Abu Dhabi is making substantial progress in healthcare innovation through strategic partnerships with leading global institutions. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has recently signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with renowned entities like Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Medicine). These partnerships aim to foster advancements in paediatric oncology, gene therapy, and translational research.
Strengthening Paediatric Oncology and Gene Therapy
The DoH’s collaboration with CHOP aims to advance research in paediatric oncology and gene therapy. This partnership is set to leverage Abu Dhabi’s evolving healthcare and life-science infrastructure. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that cancer diagnoses reached over 275,000 for children and adolescents worldwide in 2022. The disease claimed more than 105,000 of these young lives. Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei and Madeline Bell, President and CEO of CHOP, signed an MoU. The agreement aims to enhance research and develop programs in rare diseases, paediatric oncology, and gene therapy.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei remarked, “Building on our commitment to fostering international collaborations, the DoH continues to spearhead innovative treatments and breakthrough solutions in Abu Dhabi and beyond.” This partnership will enhance research capabilities, improve disease management, and advance training for healthcare professionals.
Enhancing Research Capabilities
The partnership framework includes the exchange of faculty, researchers, and students in short-term and long-term exchange programs. This initiative aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration in cutting-edge paediatric care practices. Moreover, the two parties will conduct online learning opportunities, establish conferences, seminars, and workshops, and utilise Real-World Evidence (RWE) to improve healthcare. These efforts aim to elevate and expand Abu Dhabi’s research resources, particularly in cell and gene therapy and clinical research for paediatric patients with rare diseases.
Madeline Bell, President and CEO of CHOP, stated, “CHOP is dedicated to improving health outcomes for children around the world. Our partnership with DoH will help us advance paediatric research and make breakthroughs that will benefit children in Abu Dhabi and across the globe.”
Translational Research and AI in Medicine
Ahead of its participation at BIO International Convention in San Diego, the DoH signed another MoU with Penn Medicine to expand cooperation in education, research, and innovation programmes. This MoU aims to develop a translational medicine ecosystem based on Penn’s Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics (ITMAT). The collaboration will focus on two multi-year research programmes. One programme on the expanded application of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify new potential antibiotics. The second will be on the genetic analysis of people with Alzheimer’s in Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei emphasises the success of their past collaborations with Penn Medicine. “Abu Dhabi continues to spearhead global collaboration and facilitate knowledge and experience sharing in reflection of its commitment to driving forward a future where innovative healthcare solutions are accessible to all.”
Addressing Rare Diseases: Huntington’s Disease Clinical Trial
In another significant development, the Abu Dhabi-based contract research organisation IROS, part of the M42 group, has partnered with Prilenia Therapeutics and the International Huntington’s Disease Association (IHA). This collaboration aims to plan the first-ever clinical trial for Huntington’s disease (HD) in the United Arab Emirates and Middle East and North Africa region, using Prilenia’s investigational drug, pridopidine. HD affects up to 14 per 100,000 people worldwide, causing severe cognitive decline and psychiatric issues.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei stated, “The DoH is proud to witness the launch of the region’s first clinical trial on Huntington’s disease. Abu Dhabi continues to spearhead life science initiatives to improve rare disease awareness and management. Therefore, improving healthcare outcomes for patients in the Emirate and beyond.”
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi’s strategic partnerships with global healthcare institutions are set to bring transformative changes to the healthcare landscape. These collaborations will not only enhance research capabilities but also improve disease management and training for healthcare professionals. By focusing on paediatric oncology, gene therapy, and translational research, Abu Dhabi is heading towards becoming a leading destination for life sciences and innovative healthcare solutions.
