Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre Introduces Innovative Tumour-Infiltrating Lymphocyte Therapy For Cancer Treatment

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre (ADSCC) has achieved a significant medical milestone by isolating Tumour-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs) from breast and lung tumours for the first time in the UAE. This marks a new chapter in cancer treatment within the region. The initiative introduces the nation's inaugural programme focused on TIL therapy, an innovative immunotherapy that harnesses a patient's immune cells to combat cancer.

Unlike chemotherapy, which impacts both healthy and cancerous cells, TIL therapy involves extracting immune cells from a tumour sample. These cells are then multiplied in a laboratory setting before being reinfused into the patient to target cancer cells directly. This method represents a shift towards personalised medicine, offering a tailored approach to cancer treatment.

Dr Zaima Mazorra Herrera, a lead scientist at ADSCC, described this therapy as transforming a patient's tumour into a personalised cancer-fighting system. She referred to it as "living therapy tailored to the individual." The approach has shown promising results in treating melanoma and offers hope for patients with advanced solid tumours, including lung, cervical, and head and neck cancers.

Prof. Yendry Ventura, ADSCC's Chief Executive Officer, stated that this development places the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation. It aligns with the nation's progressive spirit ahead of National Day. By building this expertise locally, there is no longer a need for patients to travel abroad for such treatments.

The project was developed in collaboration with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and SEHA. This partnership lays the groundwork for future clinical trials and large-scale production of TILs and TCR-engineered T cells. Such collaborations are crucial for advancing medical research and treatment options within the UAE.

Apart from eliminating travel needs for patients, this initiative contributes valuable research data to the global scientific community. The insights gained from these studies can aid in understanding cancer better and developing more effective treatments worldwide.

Clinical Studies on the Horizon

ADSCC plans to commence clinical studies aimed at collecting tumour samples soon. The ultimate goal is to make this pioneering therapy available to eligible patients across the UAE in upcoming years. These efforts signify a commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality within the region.

This achievement by ADSCC not only highlights its role in medical advancements but also underscores its contribution to global scientific research. As these therapies become more accessible, they hold promise for improving outcomes for many cancer patients.

With inputs from WAM