Insights for Research and Solutions (IROS), part of M42 Group, has launched the United Arab Emirates' first genome-based clinical trial in collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and US biotechnology company Halia Therapeutics, which develops clinical-stage treatments. The initiative marks a significant step towards translating the UAE Genomics Program into real-world clinical applications.
The study uses large-scale population-level genetic data from the UAE Genomics Program to identify individuals who may meet the research trial criteria for pre-symptomatic Alzheimer's disease, enabling early intervention and supporting a shift towards prevention-focused care.
Following screening and genetic counselling, the trial will evaluate the investigational therapy HT-4253, developed by Halia Therapeutics, in asymptomatic individuals who carry the APOE4 genetic variant — a key hereditary risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease.
The study contributes to Abu Dhabi's growing role in advancing precision medicine and next-generation clinical research.
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi provides regulatory oversight of the initiative, ensuring the responsible and ethical use of UAE Genomics Program data. All activities are conducted in compliance with applicable data protection and patient privacy regulations.
Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said the UAE Genomics Program is one of the country's strategic national assets that is helping to transform the way we understand, prevent, and treat diseases. She added that it reflects the UAE's vision of harnessing genomic science to build a more precise, proactive, and prevention-focused healthcare system.
Al Ghaithi added: "This type of study embodies the true value of the UAE Genomics Program — not only as one of the largest population genomics programmes in the world, but as a national platform capable of converting scientific data into real-world clinical applications that improve community health and enhance quality of life for current and future generations. The programme also helps strengthen the genetic representation of diverse communities in our region within global studies, supporting the development of a more comprehensive understanding of diseases and therapeutic solutions worldwide."