PureLab’s new Genetics Centre at STMC in Al Ain represents a significant advancement for healthcare in the UAE. With advanced technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), the centre offers a variety of genetic testing services, including Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT). In this interview with Arindam Haldar, the CEO of PureLab, we explore how the centre is enhancing diagnostic capabilities in the region, its influence on genetics and precision medicine, and its future objectives for shaping the field.

MedEdge MEA: How does PureLab’s new Genetics Centre at Shaikh Tahnoon Medical City (STMC) in Al Ain contribute to the healthcare ecosystem of the UAE?

Arindam Haldar: PureLab’s new Genetics Centre at STMC in Al Ain marks a key milestone for PureLab. This furthers our efforts to support PureHealth’s vision to advance the science of longevity and positively impact the wider UAE healthcare ecosystem. This centre is equipped with the latest genomic diagnostic technologies, including next-generation sequencing (NGS), which enables us to offer a wide range of genetic testing services to our clients and partners. Our Genetics Centre supports the UAE’s vision of becoming a regional leader in healthcare innovation and excellence, by providing access to world-class diagnostics services that can improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various genetic disorders.

ME: Can you tell us more about the non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) offered at PureLab’s Genetics Centre?

AH: One of the flagship services at our Genetics Centre is non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), a breakthrough in prenatal screening. This test provides a comprehensive overview of an unborn child’s genetic health, reducing the need for invasive procedures like amniocentesis, which can pose risks to both the mother and the baby.

Also Read: PureLab to Spotlight Revolutionary Diagnostic Solutions at Medlab 2024

The PureLab Genetics Centre’s NIPT can detect conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13) as early as the 10th week of pregnancy, with high accuracy and a lower false-positive rate. Additionally, our NIPT can screen for sex chromosome abnormalities and other genetic conditions.

ME: How does the new Genetics Centre align with PureLab’s efforts to contribute to regional diagnostic advancements?

AH: The new Genetics Centre reflects our commitment to contribute to regional diagnostic advancements by using cutting-edge genomic technologies and providing high-quality, reliable testing services. By offering in-house NIPT and other genetic tests, we ensure faster and more accurate diagnostics, which are essential for timely medical interventions and optimal patient care. This also supports the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region, by reducing the dependency on external testing facilities and enhancing the local capacity and expertise. Furthermore, the new Genetics Centre enables us to conduct research and development activities to improve our existing services and introduce new ones, in line with the evolving needs and expectations of our clients and partners.

ME: How do PureLab’s efforts contribute to advancements in the field of genetics and precision medicine in the region?

AH: Our efforts at PureLab contribute significantly to advancements in genetics and precision medicine by providing access to advanced diagnostic tools and technologies that can enable personalized and tailored healthcare solutions. The Genetics Centre’s use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and other genomic techniques allows us to precisely identify genetic disorders, facilitating personalized treatment plans and improving patient outcomes. By integrating these advanced diagnostics into the regional healthcare system, we are helping to drive the adoption of precision medicine practices, which can lead to more effective and efficient healthcare delivery. We are also collaborating with various stakeholders, such as healthcare providers, academic institutions, and government agencies, to promote the awareness and education of genetics and precision medicine in the region.

ME: What are PureLab’s key strategic priorities for the future in the field of genetics, precision medicine, and diagnostics?

AH: A key strategic priority for the future is to continue expanding our range of genetic testing services. This includes monogenic diagnostic testing, as well as comprehensive companion diagnostics, due to the key role that they play in providing tailored treatment for solid tumor patients. Furthermore, through the implementation of pharmacogenetic testing, which is personalized to each patient, we will use a customized drug selection and dosing strategy to maximize the impact of treatment whilst minimizing the side effects that a patient may experience.

‘We will use a customized drug selection and dosing strategy to maximize the impact of treatment whilst minimizing the side effects that a patient may experience.’

Arindam Haldar, Chief Executive Officer, PureLab

We also aim to further integrate precision medicine into our role within the healthcare system by providing comprehensive genetic insights that aid the development of personalized treatment plans. Additionally, we are focused on fostering collaborations to promote the adoption of advanced diagnostic practices and improve overall healthcare outcomes in the region.