Latest news with #Dubai Health
Economy ME
24-07-2025
- Health
- Economy ME
MBRU scientists publish first Arab Pangenome Reference in major genomic breakthrough
Scientists at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), the academic and research arm of Dubai Health , have achieved a major milestone in global genomic science with the publication of the first Arab Pangenome Reference. Featured in Nature Communications , a leading peer-reviewed journal, the study marks a pivotal advancement in precision medicine and personalized healthcare for Arab populations. The landmark achievement supports the UAE's National Genome Strategy, a 10-year initiative launched in 2023 by the Emirates Genome Council. The strategy aims to transform healthcare in the UAE through cutting-edge genomic research focused on personalized, preventive, and precision medicine. The Arab Pangenome Reference was created using high-quality DNA sequencing from 53 individuals of diverse Arab heritage residing in the UAE. Conducted at MBRU's state-of-the-art Center for Applied and Translational Genomics (CATG), the research identified more than 110 million base pairs of novel DNA sequences. Additionally, it uncovered nearly 9 million small genetic variations and over 235,000 large structural differences unique to Arab populations — none of which had been previously reported in global DNA references. Read: Sheikh Hamdan awards golden visas to nurses with 15+ years of service at Dubai Health Leadership insights Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali , director general, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and co-author of the study, said: 'This achievement strengthens the UAE's position in genomic science. By building a reference that reflects the genetic diversity of Arab populations, we are enabling more precise and equitable healthcare. It's a foundational step towards realising the goals of our National Genome Strategy and ensuring that future medical innovations are shaped by data from our own communities.' Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi, acting Provost of MBRU, and co-author of the study said: 'The capabilities of the CATG lab were central to the success of this project. From genetic sequencing to advanced bioinformatics, every stage of the research was completed in-house. This level of integration gave us full control over quality and timelines, reflecting Dubai Health's commitment to building world-class infrastructure and fostering national scientific leaders.' Dr. Mohammed Uddin, director of CATG and associate professor of Genetics at MBRU, and senior author of the study, said: 'This pangenome reference marks a major advancement in our understanding of Arab genomic diversity. It serves as a critical resource for both research discovery and clinical genome diagnostics, with lasting impact for future generations across the region.' Professor Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, director general, Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Addressing gaps in global genomic databases Historically, global genomic databases have significantly underrepresented Arab populations, limiting the accuracy of genetic risk assessment and treatment strategies for these communities. The Arab Pangenome Reference fills a critical gap by introducing high-resolution genomic data from a population long absent in international references. One particularly notable finding from the study was the discovery of the duplicated gene TAF11L5, which is highly enriched among Arab individuals but missing in existing global genomic references. Researchers believe this gene could influence the regulation of other genes and may hold important insights into disease risk and variations in treatment response. Enabling precision healthcare in the Arab World The Arab Pangenome Reference provides a foundational tool for national and regional precision medicine initiatives. It enables the development of population-specific biomarkers, disease risk models, and targeted therapies — advancing the region's ability to deliver more accurate, personalized healthcare solutions. Alongside the genomic map, the research team also introduced a new bioinformatics tool called PanScan. Designed to support more complex analysis of human pangenomes, PanScan helps researchers detect gene duplications, novel DNA variants, and complex genomic structures. Though not the main focus of the study, the tool has been made freely available on GitHub, offering global researchers access to further investigate human genomic diversity. The strategy aims to transform healthcare in the UAE through cutting-edge genomic research focused on personalized, preventive, and precision medicine A strategic step toward global representation Genomic research has progressed rapidly in recent decades, but much of the foundational data has come from a limited range of populations, creating blind spots in medical understanding. The Arab Pangenome Reference contributes to a growing international effort to correct this imbalance and promote global inclusivity in genomic science. The initiative also reflects Dubai Health's long-term commitment to research and innovation through MBRU. By investing in foundational studies such as this, Dubai Health is ensuring that Arab populations are actively represented in the future of genomics and precision healthcare. This groundbreaking research not only elevates the UAE's position in global genomic science but also lays the groundwork for more equitable, effective, and personalized healthcare systems across the Arab World.
Zawya
15-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Dubai Health and GE HealthCare to enhance Point-of-Care Ultrasound education and practice in the MENA region
Collaboration to encourage innovation and co-development of AI solutions in radiology, computer vision, and other areas Dubai, UAE: Dubai Health and GE HealthCare, a leading global medical technology and digital solutions innovator, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on enhancing Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) practices and co-developing innovative AI solutions to support clinical decision-making, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes across the UAE and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The collaboration combines Dubai Health's academic and innovation expertise with GE HealthCare's advanced technological capabilities to enhance medical education, strengthen clinical decision-making, and improve health outcomes throughout the UAE and the broader MENA region. The MoU will establish Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) as a POCUS Education Center of Excellence and a pioneer in Point-of-Care Ultrasound education across the MENA region. Key initiatives include: a 'Train-of-Trainer (TOT)' structured program to build capacity in certified facilitators and trainers. The Facilitator Training Program will also enhance the scalability and effectiveness of POCUS program delivery and execution across a broader geographical region, enabling wider participation of attendees, students, and delegates. In addition, the collaboration will extend to the co-development of AI solutions through Dubai Health Innovations, which supports transformative solutions that enhance patient care, drive medical advancements, and improve health outcomes. This partnership will focus on the development and validation of emerging AI technologies in areas of mutual interest, such as radiology and computer vision, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy, streamline clinical workflows, and facilitate early detection of medical conditions. Through this joint effort, both parties seek to foster innovation, accelerate adoption of cutting-edge AI tools, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare delivery in the region. Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi, Acting Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of MBRU said: 'This collaboration reflects Dubai Health's commitment to delivering on our 'Patient First' promise through the integration of care, learning, and innovation to elevate healthcare standards. By building capacity in POCUS education and co-developing AI-powered solutions, we are empowering clinicians with next-generation technologies to improve patient outcomes.' President of GE HealthCare EAGM (Eurasian and African Growth Markets), Konstantinos Deligiannis, said: 'This MoU marks a pivotal moment for POCUS advancement in the MENA region. We are excited to partner with Dubai Health to build skills, accelerate knowledge transfer, and strengthen the local and regional healthcare expertise. By combining our advanced ultrasound technology with innovative AI solutions, we are committed to enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, ultimately contributing to the region's broader healthcare objectives.' Dr. Rasha Buhumaid, Vice Dean of Graduate Medical Education, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, and Program Director of POCUS at MBRU, further commented: 'This partnership is a significant step toward realizing our vision of positioning MBRU as a Center of Excellence for Point-of-Care Ultrasound education. Through the Facilitator Training Program and other initiatives, this collaboration enables us to strengthen the integration of POCUS into clinical practice, build sustainable expertise, and support better outcomes at the point of care and across the health system.' Professor Nabil Zary, Senior Director of the Institute of Learning at Dubai Health, also noted: 'Education is at the heart of sustainable healthcare transformation. This partnership with GE HealthCare enables us to deliver high-impact, evidence-based training in POCUS that not only equips clinicians with advanced skills but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and innovation.' The MoU between the two parties will be in effect for two years and is renewable by mutual agreement. About Dubai Health Dubai Health, the first integrated academic health system in Dubai, was established to elevate the standard of care and to advance health for humanity. Dubai Health is comprised of 6 hospitals, 26 ambulatory health centers, 21 medical fitness centers, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Al Jalila Foundation. Together, Dubai Health serves patients through the integration of care, learning, discovery, and giving. A workforce of over 11,000 collaborates across multidisciplinary teams to put the patient first. About GE HealthCare Technologies Inc. GE HealthCare is a leading global medical technology, pharmaceutical diagnostics, and digital solutions innovator, dedicated to providing integrated solutions, services, and data analytics to make hospitals more efficient, clinicians more effective, therapies more precise, and patients healthier and happier. Serving patients and providers for more than 125 years, GE HealthCare is advancing personalized, connected, and compassionate care, while simplifying the patient's journey across the care pathway. Together our Imaging, Advanced Visualization Solutions, Patient Care Solutions, and Pharmaceutical Diagnostics businesses help improve patient care from diagnosis, to therapy, to monitoring. We are a $19.6 billion business with approximately 51,000 colleagues working to create a world where healthcare has no limits. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, and Insights for the latest news, or visit our website for more information.
