ABU DHABI: In a groundbreaking achievement, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC), a subsidiary of PureHealth and the Middle East’s largest healthcare platform, has successfully produced the UAE’s inaugural CAR-T cell. These cells mark a significant breakthrough in the treatment of leukemia, specifically in the case of an 11-year-old boy.
Pioneering CAR-T Cell Therapy for a Young Leukemia Patient
Murad, an 11-year-old child, faced a relentless battle with leukemia that initially led to remission but resurfaced six months ago. Conventional chemotherapy failed to yield results, leaving CAR-T cell therapy as the last resort.
The complex procedure unfolded within ADSCC’s state-of-the-art Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) laboratories—a rarity in the Middle East. Over five weeks, Murad underwent treatment at ADSCC, the exclusive Centre of Excellence in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Abu Dhabi. The approach involved genetically modifying Murad’s immune cells to combat the cancer cells, extracted from his own body, before reintroducing them intravenously.
Government and Healthcare Leaders Praise the Landmark Achievement
Her Excellency Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, lauded the accomplishment. She highlighted Abu Dhabi’s growing influence in global healthcare and praised its strong infrastructure, medical facilities, and skilled workforce.
Dr. Yendry Ventura, CEO of ADSCC, emphasized the significance of CAR-T therapy’s local availability, acknowledging the UAE’s leadership and its vision for advanced medical innovation.
Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment and Advancing Medical Science
Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Executive Director of Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program (ADBMT©) at ADSCC, underlined the institution’s commitment to advancing medical science. She celebrated the milestone and solidified the UAE’s role as a global medical research destination.
UAE’s first CAR-T cell therapy, previously monopolized by foreign pharmaceutical companies, now stands as a beacon of hope for patients like Murad, symbolizing the UAE’s position at the forefront of medical advancements and research.
