Abu Dhabi Highlights Genomics, Precision Medicine at ASHG 2024

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

Representatives from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), M42, and Khalifa University are currently presenting Abu Dhabi’s groundbreaking advancements in genomics and precision medicine at the 2024 American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado. The event, running until November 9, 2024, serves as the world’s premier platform for human genetics research, education, and advocacy.

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At ASHG 2024, the DoH and M42 are showcasing six cutting-edge research initiatives that highlight the transformative impact of genomics and precision medicine on healthcare. These initiatives represent significant strides in disease prevention, early diagnosis, and personalized treatments tailored to local genetic profiles.

The DoH is presenting updates on the Emirati Genome Program (EGP), one of the world’s largest genomic projects. The EGP, part of the UAE’s National Genome Strategy and overseen by the Emirates Genome Council, focuses on mapping the genetic landscape of UAE citizens to enhance healthcare outcomes. The program is driving forward a range of pioneering initiatives, including precision oncology, genetic testing for prenatal screenings, and pharmacogenomics, among others. These advancements aim to shift healthcare away from a one-size-fits-all approach towards a more personalized, preventive model.

M42 is also playing a pivotal role in advancing the Emirati Genome Program, bridging scientific discovery with clinical applications. The organization is presenting research on clinical applications enabled by the EGP, including a comparative analysis of emerging genomics technologies. M42’s Omics Centre of Excellence is central to these efforts, helping expand access to precision medicine and enhance patient outcomes.

Dr. Mohamed Al Ameri, Section Head of Studies and Special Projects at DoH, highlighted the importance of the Emirati Genome Program at ASHG, stating: “We are excited to present the UAE’s journey in establishing one of the world’s most ambitious population genomics initiatives. Through the EGP, we have launched transformative healthcare programs that aim to offer precise, proactive, and personalized care to future generations. Our goal is to set a global example of how genomics can reshape healthcare, improving patient outcomes and strengthening public health.”

Paul Jones, CEO of M42’s Omics Centre of Excellence, emphasized the organization’s commitment to advancing genomics research, stating: “M42 is dedicated to advancing discoveries and enhancing patient outcomes by addressing critical research gaps. We aim to ensure that technologies like the Emirati Genome Program are used to effectively manage population health and drive healthcare innovation.”

Albarah Elkhani, Senior Vice President of Operations at M42, stressed Abu Dhabi’s role in advancing personalized healthcare, saying: “Abu Dhabi’s presence at ASHG 2024 highlights the emirate’s leadership in genomics and precision medicine. The collaboration between the DoH, academia, and industry strengthens the UAE’s position as a leader in these transformative fields.”

Khalifa University’s Professor Habiba Al Safar, Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, also took the opportunity to showcase the Emirati Reference Genome Project. Al Safar noted, “This project is helping set new standards in healthcare for the Emirati population, driving scientific excellence and advancing precision medicine.”

Since its launch, the Emirati Genome Program has sequenced over 600,000 genomes, including 100,000 advanced long-read sequences paired with epigenetic data to offer deeper insights into genetic predispositions. The program continues to make significant strides in contributing to the global genomics landscape.

At ASHG 2024, Dr. Tiago Magalhaes, Vice President of Bioinformatics at M42, and Dr. Mohamed Al Ameri will participate in a session titled “Uniting for Genomic Health – How Abu Dhabi Delivered One of the Largest Population Genomics Programs.” This session will spotlight the strategic execution behind the EGP and explore how collaboration between government, academia, and industry has propelled the initiative forward. Additionally, the experts will moderate a discussion on “The Evolution of Population Genomics: Advancing Collaboration Across Government, Industry, and Academia,” which will focus on M42’s partnerships and their impact on the future of genomics.

The ASHG 2024 Annual Meeting is a vital event for the international scientific community, bringing together experts to share knowledge and innovations that are shaping the future of genetics and precision medicine.