UAE Researchers Leverage Artificial Intelligence to Uncover Promising Blood Cancer Treatment

Scientists in the UAE have successfully utilized artificial intelligence to discover a new class of drugs aimed at treating blood cancer. This breakthrough represents the latest AI-driven discovery by Insilico Medicine, a clinical-stage biotechnology company with researchers operating out of Masdar City, Abu Dhabi.

By leveraging this advanced technology, the company aims to significantly reduce research and development timelines. Currently, nine out of every 10 potential drugs that enter human testing fail to achieve official approval as medicines.

However, Ahmad Alghaith, an organic chemist at Insilico Medicine, noted that artificial intelligence could enhance success rates. "The hope of AI is that it will increase the success rate, reduce time spent and reduce costs," he told The National.

Insilico Medicine generally requires 12 to 18 months to select a potential drug candidate for further testing prior to human trials, compared to a duration of two and a half to four years using conventional methods. The firm relies on two distinct AI platforms for its investigative work. According to Mr Alghaith, the PandaOmics AI platform accelerates the identification of disease-related target proteins. Subsequently, a second platform named Chemistry42 assists in designing molecules featuring the correct geometry to bind securely with the selected protein.

"Traditionally, you would have to design your own molecules, try to fit this with your own designs, but with the help of artificial intelligence, it can make these designs for you," Mr Alghaith explained.

The newly identified substances belong to a category known as PROTACs, which are double-ended molecules functioning differently from standard medications. Rather than establishing a temporary bond with a target protein, these molecules guide it directly to the cellular disposal system for complete destruction. In this specific application, they target Bruton's tyrosine kinase, a protein that facilitates the growth and dissemination of malignant cells in blood cancers, including certain forms of leukaemias and lymphomas. Comprehensive findings have been documented in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.

Insilico Medicine classifies the novel PROTACs as "lead compounds" because testing to verify their readiness for clinical trials remains incomplete. They form part of a broader sequence of potential pharmaceutical candidates that Insilico Medicine intends to unveil throughout the year.

Back in April, the organization's Abu Dhabi-based researchers announced the AI-assisted discovery of a compound capable of fighting brain cancer, marking the initial UAE-discovered drug nominated as a preclinical candidate for subsequent development toward human trials. Another candidate—a non-opioid molecule potentially capable of managing chronic pain—was disclosed in July.

Human trials for these earlier announcements could require several years once preclinical investigations and regulatory authorizations are finalized. Mr Alghaith, an Emirati scientist holding a master's degree from University College London, indicated that the expansion of the sector is generating fresh career paths within the UAE.

"When I went into this field, about eight years ago, I had no idea where I was going to work, because this sector was not here in the UAE," he stated, highlighting the rapid transformation fostered by the nation, which has equally contributed to Insilico's achievements.

The Abu Dhabi Investment Office, a governmental body overseeing domestic and international investments, backed the establishment of Insilico Medicine's operations in the UAE. Furthermore, the company maintains an artificial intelligence and quantum computing development centre located at the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters in Masdar City.