OncoMASTER, Novo Genomics team-up over oncology studies in Saudi Arabia

South Korea-based precision oncology company OncoMASTER is teaming up with Novo Genomics, a pioneering Saudi biotech firm. The collaboration aims to bring cutting-edge AI-driven oncology solutions to Saudi Arabia, positioning the country as a regional leader in advanced cancer care.

By signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both organizations are set to revolutionize cancer treatment through personalized therapies and enhanced clinical trial access.

How will it work?

The partnership integrates OncoMASTER's predictive AI models with Novo Genomics' genomic expertise, creating a robust framework for precision oncology. Key initiatives under this collaboration include:

• AI-Driven Treatment Classification: OncoMASTER's predictive models will classify colorectal cancer patients into groups most likely to benefit from specific therapies.
• Clinical Trial Matching: A feasibility study will explore AI-based solutions for matching patients to cutting-edge clinical trials, improving treatment accessibility.
• Genomic and Clinical Data Integration: By merging genomic and clinical data, the collaboration seeks to enhance cancer care personalization in Saudi Arabia.

Inspired by South Korea's successful K-MASTER project, discussions are underway to establish the S-MASTER initiative — a Saudi-specific genomic database tailored to local genetic profiles. This would pave the way for groundbreaking research and innovative treatments.

Why does it matter?

This partnership isn't just about advancing technology — it's about improving lives. Saudi Arabia, under its Vision 2030, aims to develop a world-class healthcare system. By leveraging AI and genomics, the collaboration can:

• Deliver personalized cancer therapies, tailored to the genetic and clinical profiles of patients.
• Establish Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for precision oncology, fostering innovation and high-value biotech jobs.
• Expand access to advanced clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments for local patients.

As Abdulelah Alhawsawi, CEO of Novo Genomics, stated: "This collaboration will allow us to improve cancer care outcomes and establish the Kingdom as a leader in precision oncology."

The ripple effect extends beyond healthcare, contributing to a sustainable biotech ecosystem that benefits the entire region.

The context

Globally, precision medicine is reshaping how diseases like cancer are diagnosed and treated. Inspired by South Korea's K-MASTER initiative, which created a vast cancer genomics database, Saudi Arabia is taking a similar approach with its proposed S-MASTER project. This initiative seeks to create one of the region's largest genomic databases, tailored to Saudi patients' genetic profiles.

As Dr. Woo Young Jang, CEO of OncoMASTER, remarked: "This collaboration will not only help improve patient outcomes but could also serve as a framework for broader precision medicine applications in the Middle East."

By embracing innovation, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global leader in healthcare transformation, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals and setting a benchmark for the region. Also, this collaboration exemplifies how strategic partnerships can drive meaningful change, bridging global expertise and local knowledge to improve patient outcomes and create lasting impact.