Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center working to enhance treatment for multiple sclerosis

Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) has been awarded one of only six research grants from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS). The grant will support ADSCC's ongoing clinical trials, particularly the Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP) for Optimal Management of Multiple Sclerosis study, which started in 2022.

How does it work?

ADSCC's clinical trial for MS is a randomized, controlled, open-label clinical trial for people diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) or relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The primary objective of the study is the safety and efficacy assessment of using ECP for people living with MS.

In this study, ECP, a promising treatment with an established safety record, is being investigated for potential benefits in MS at ADSCC. The ongoing trial compares ECP alongside standard MS care to standard care alone. Patients undergo 28 procedures in 6 months, followed by 6 months of follow-up. With NMSS support, this clinical trial will continue to advance MS treatment options in the region.

On the record

"We are deeply honored to receive this grant from the NMSS. This moment serves as powerful validation to our research efforts and will significantly propel our studies on ECP use for MS. This aligns perfectly with UAE's vision as a global hub for life science and research and fulfills ADSCC's mission towards driving research efforts to discover new pathways and therapies for various conditions including MS," said professor Yendry Ventura, CEO and Principal Investigator in the study at the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, Adjunct Professor at UAE University. "We are grateful to the leadership for their guidance and to entities such as the NMSS for their unwavering support to research institutes as we collectively bring better treatments for people living with MS."

The context

ADSCC is a leading research institution, specializing in regenerative medicine and cellular therapy. Founded in 2019, the institution runs multiple home-grown clinical trials and numerous international and local research projects in cancer, MS, kidney diseases, and different neurological disorders.