Post by : Badri Ariffin

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has revealed funding for four innovative multiple sclerosis (MS) research initiatives as part of its latest Research Grant Programme cycle. Additionally, the organization has inaugurated its fourth grant cycle to bolster MS research across the UAE.

This new cycle attracted significant engagement from researchers within the UAE, with a remarkable 36 letters of intent and 34 full applications received. Following a thorough review process, four projects have been chosen for funding, underscoring the increasing enthusiasm for MS research in the region.

The current grant cycle centers on the theme “Advancing MS Innovation through Autoimmune Discovery,” which aims to enhance the comprehension of MS, focusing on areas such as immunobiology, genetic and environmental risk factors, breakthrough treatments, biomarker-driven precision medicine, and improved patient care.

Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Vice Chair of NMSS, emphasized that the funded projects reflect the advancing capabilities of the UAE’s research landscape, particularly in the domains of artificial intelligence and precision medicine. She noted that local investigations will not only enhance treatment results for individuals with MS but also contribute to the global knowledge base.

Research Projects Funded

One of the selected projects, led by Dr. Bassem Yamout at Harley Street Medical Center, employs artificial intelligence (AI) to heighten the accuracy of MRI scans. This initiative aims to differentiate MS from neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, thereby minimizing misdiagnoses and facilitating prompt treatment decisions.

Another initiative from Dr. Omer Alkhnbashi at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences is in the development phase of an AI-driven predictive tool. This tool amalgamates clinical, imaging, and genetic insights to pinpoint optimal treatment avenues for MS patients in the UAE.

Dr. Youssef Idaghdour at New York University Abu Dhabi is spearheading the HEAL MS research, investigating how lifestyle modifications such as improved nutrition, increased physical activity, and stress management might affect biological markers and enhance overall wellness in patients with MS.

Additionally, Dr. Nemat Ullah Khan from Khalifa University is examining a prospective neuroprotective agent named Hi1a, derived from the venom of the Australian funnel-web spider, using brain organoids to explore nerve protection and myelin regeneration.

Programme Funding and Future Opportunities

Since its commencement in June 2023, the NMSS Research Grants Programme has allocated nearly AED 11 million toward MS-related studies. These efforts concern new therapeutic approaches, greater understanding of the disease, its prevalence within the UAE, and genetic research.

For the fourth cycle, researchers are invited to submit letters of intent from June 1 to July 5, 2026, followed by detailed proposals by August 23, 2026. Final funding decisions are slated for release in December 2026.

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