Post by : Badri Ariffin

The UAE has embarked on its inaugural genomics-focused clinical trial, marking a significant advance in leveraging genetic research for healthcare improvements. Spearheaded by M42's Insights Research Organization and Solutions (IROS), in collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and U.S. biotechnology firm Halia Therapeutics, the initiative taps into the Emirati Genome Programme.

This pioneering study is the first to apply findings from the Emirati Genome Programme (EGP) in a clinical environment, aligning with Abu Dhabi's ambition to push for precision medicine and proactive healthcare strategies.

Identifying Individuals at Risk Before Symptoms Emerge

Researchers will utilize extensive genomic data from the Emirati Genome Programme to pinpoint individuals who may qualify for the trial based on their genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease, before any signs are visible.

The Department of Health will reach out to prospective participants via SMS for screening. Participants will also undergo genetic counselling to familiarize themselves with the trial process and their genetic data.

Oversight for the project will be managed by the Department of Health to guarantee the ethical and responsible application of genomic information, with strict adherence to privacy and data protection guidelines.

Testing HT-4253 in High-Risk Gene Carriers

The trial will focus on evaluating HT-4253, an experimental therapy developed by Halia Therapeutics. This treatment is designed for individuals with the APOE4 gene variant, known to significantly increase late-onset Alzheimer’s disease risk, yet who are asymptomatic.

The aim is to explore whether early interventions can stave off or delay the onset of the disease.

Abu Dhabi’s Commitment to Precision Medicine

Conducted in Abu Dhabi, the trial is under the guidance of IROS, with clinical data linked through Malaffi, the emirate’s health information exchange platform.

By harnessing genomic insights from the Emirati Genome Programme alongside extensive clinical data, the project bolsters Abu Dhabi's standing as a global hub for genomics and biotechnology.

Emirati Genome Programme Achieves Major Milestone

To date, the Emirati Genome Programme has sequenced over 900,000 genomes, positioning it among the world’s largest national genomics endeavors.

This vast data set aids in identifying individuals at elevated genetic risk, while contributing critical insights into APOE4 prevalence and genetic variations unique to Emiratis and Arab populations.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi on the Significance of Genomic Medicine

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH – Abu Dhabi, emphasized that the Emirati Genome Programme is a pivotal national asset reshaping the understanding, prevention, and treatment of diseases.

She noted that the integration of genomic information into healthcare supports personalized medicine by facilitating earlier risk assessments and targeted interventions based on genetic profiles.

Dr. Al Ghaithi also highlighted the programme’s role in enhancing the representation of Arab populations in global genomic studies.

The Global Challenge of Alzheimer’s Disease

Currently, Alzheimer’s affects over 55 million individuals around the globe, a number projected to nearly triple by 2050.

Experts underscore the urgency for improved diagnostic methods and prevention strategies amidst the growing impact of neurodegenerative diseases, both in the UAE and worldwide.

M42 Highlights Advantages in Research Infrastructure

Albarah El-Khani, COO of Integrated Health Solutions at M42, discussed how the collaboration between a vast national genomic database and Halia Therapeutics’ innovative therapy enhances the capacity to identify APOE4 carriers among underserved research populations.

David Kavanagh, Interim General Manager of IROS, sees this trial as the practical application of over a decade's investment in genomic research, demonstrating the use of genomic insights in preventative healthcare.

Halia Therapeutics Strengthens its Footprint in Abu Dhabi

Halia Therapeutics focuses on developing medications informed by a genetic resilience model, examining why certain individuals maintain health despite high-risk genetic markers. Their therapy HT-4253 targets a specific pathway linked to Alzheimer’s.

The establishment of a new office in Abu Dhabi signifies the emirate’s growing allure for biotech companies and genomics research.

CEO Advocates for Early Intervention in Alzheimer’s Prevention

Dave Bearss, Ph.D., President and CEO of Halia Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of understanding the biological mechanisms that allow some individuals to evade disease even with high-risk genetic backgrounds.

According to Bearss, the Emirati Genome Programme and M42's clinical infrastructure create a foundation for prevention-centric research, aiming to intervene before the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms.

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