Khaberni -UAE doctor Ajlan Al-Zaki, the first specialist in T-cell immunotherapy and director of the Hematology and Oncology Center at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi, announced the development of a new technology for treating hematologic cancers.
The new technique uses "genetically modified T-cells" (CAR T-cell), which represents a transformation in treating cancer within the UAE, especially in cases of blood tumors. This is considered a significant step towards localizing the biomedical industries and enhancing the health and economic security systems.
Zaki explained during his participation in the "Made in UAE" forum that local manufacturing of this treatment has reduced its cost by 90%, decreasing dependence on imports and shortening waiting periods.
He noted that the treatment is made specifically for each patient, where cells are genetically engineered to attack the tumor precisely, thereby reducing the side effects compared to traditional treatments.
Zaki affirmed that 91% of the patients who received the treatment did not need additional treatment, compared to 76% with traditional treatments. He also praised the governmental support and advanced infrastructure, such as the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center, which contributed to the localization of biotechnology and enhancing the role of UAE skills in medical research and leadership.
Zaki added that the use of artificial intelligence in analyzing patient data has increased the precision of the treatment, considering this achievement a step towards making the UAE a global center for medical treatment and innovation.
