Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre Innovates With Advanced Treatment For Multiple Sclerosis Using Photopheresis

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC) is pioneering a new treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) using the THERAKOS CELLEX platform for photopheresis. This innovative approach is part of a clinical trial sanctioned by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, employing extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) to treat MS patients. This development offers a promising therapeutic alternative for those affected by this challenging neurological disorder.

MS is a chronic illness where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system, causing issues with movement, balance, and speech. Although existing treatments are available, many patients eventually find these options ineffective. ECP presents renewed hope for those with limited alternatives. Traditionally used for graft-versus-host disease and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, ECP is now being explored by ADSCC as a potential therapy for neurological autoimmune disorders.

This breakthrough is part of the PHOMS clinical study conducted by ADSCC and approved by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. The study targets patients with Secondary Progressive MS and Relapsing-Remitting MS. Many participants have reported improvements in balance, walking, and speech—progress not achievable with standard therapies.

The treatment involves collecting white blood cells from patients, activating them with light outside the body, and reinfusing them to help rebalance immune function. This process may slow MS progression and alleviate symptoms. The collaborative efforts from various stakeholders in Abu Dhabi's healthcare ecosystem have been crucial in advancing this important study.

"The collaborative efforts from different stakeholders in the Abu Dhabi healthcare ecosystem, including the DOH and MS Society, have been instrumental in culminating this important study that will strengthen the position of the UAE as a regional leader in cell and gene therapy. The results that will be published shortly in our scientific reports can pave the way for the incorporation of a new treatment alternative for people with MS for the first time globally," said Prof. Yendry Ventura, Chief Executive Officer of ADSCC.

Sandra Thompson, Co-CEO of Therakos LLC, expressed appreciation for ADSCC's dedication: "We greatly value the expertise and dedication of the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre and its commitment to scientific excellence and patient-centred research." She also anticipates future collaborations to drive meaningful progress for the MS community in the UAE.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in offering new hope to individuals living with MS. By exploring ECP as a viable treatment option, ADSCC aims to provide relief to those who have exhausted conventional therapies. As research progresses, it could lead to global adoption of this novel approach.

With inputs from WAM