A leading UAE university has launched a centre for stem cell research in support of a nationwide effort to advance cutting-edge health care and cement the country's position as a global leader in regenerative medicine.
The Stem Cells Research Centre, established at United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, has been hailed as a first for the Emirates.
It aims to develop a "new generation" of Emirati scientists to help drive progress in stem cell therapy and enhance patient care. The centre opened on Monday in the presence of Zaki Nusseibeh, cultural adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed and chancellor of the university.
The centre will seek to bolster research into stem cell therapy, boost manufacturing capabilities and establish international partnerships to support the stem cell market in the Middle East, which is expected to grow from $711.8 million in 2024 to $1.3 billion by 2030.
Prof Fatma Al Jasmi, acting dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at United Arab Emirates University, underlined the importance of the centre for the country's expanding health sector.
"The opening of the Stem Cells Research Centre is a significant achievement that reflects the university's vision to promote research innovation and build national capacities in medical sciences," she said. "Through this centre, we aim to prepare a new generation of Emirati scientists capable of offering advanced medical solutions and solidifying the UAE's position as a global leader in regenerative medicine."
The centre will work to develop innovative treatments and support clinical trials through collaborations with domestic and international partners, including the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre.
UAE at forefront of stem cell care
Stem cell therapy, also referred to as regenerative medicine, involves the use of stem cells to repair or replace damaged and diseased tissues in the body. Stem cells are grown in labs and tailored for specific treatment, such as organ transplants and some types of cancer therapy.
In 2022, the UAE successfully completed a bone-marrow transplant using longer-term cryogenic freezing of healthy cells.
Scientists at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre are working round the clock to use stem cells for repairing and regenerating organs. The medical complex has set its sights on becoming a regional hub in the treatment of diseases including Type 1 diabetes and end-stage organ failure.
Speaking to The National in 2023, Dr Yendry Ventura, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre chief executive, outlined his vision for the future.
"My ambition is a world in which we don’t have to wait many years for a donor to give me a kidney while I am attached to a machine," he said. "It could mean the end of patients getting as far as organ failure."
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Key figures in the life of the fort
Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa (ruled 1761-1793) Built Qasr Al Hosn as a watchtower to guard over the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi island.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab (ruled 1793-1816) Expanded the tower into a small fort and transferred his ruling place of residence from Liwa Oasis to the fort on the island.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Shakhbut (ruled 1818-1833) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further as Abu Dhabi grew from a small village of palm huts to a town of more than 5,000 inhabitants.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Shakhbut (ruled 1833-1845) Repaired and fortified the fort.
Sheikh Saeed bin Tahnoon (ruled 1845-1855) Turned Qasr Al Hosn into a strong two-storied structure.
Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa (ruled 1855-1909) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further to reflect the emirate's increasing prominence.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan (ruled 1928-1966) Renovated and enlarged Qasr Al Hosn, adding a decorative arch and two new villas.
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan (ruled 1966-2004) Moved the royal residence to Al Manhal palace and kept his diwan at Qasr Al Hosn.
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