Regenerative Medicine Center and Novel Healthcare Solutions in Bahrain
Healthcare &Life Sciences Focus
Bahrain, a small Kingdom located in the Arabian Gulf, has been making significant strides in the field of healthcare, particularly in the area of regenerative medicine.
Law Update: Issue 364 - Healthcare & Life Sciences Focus
Rad El TrekiPartner, Head of Office - Bahrain
Hiba AbidTrainee Solicitor,Banking & Finance
Bahrain, a small Kingdom located in the Arabian Gulf, has been making significant strides in the field of healthcare, particularly in the area of regenerative medicine. With the establishment of the Regenerative Medicine Center, the Kingdom is at the forefront of innovative healthcare solutions, offering hope to patients suffering from various chronic diseases and injuries. Another huge development towards revolutionizing healthcare in Bahrain entails the establishment of the National Genome Center, which is a facility at the forefront of genomic research and precision medicine, offering hope for improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.
As the fast-developing medical sector has introduced novel healthcare solutions, regulating such initiatives has been a priority for the National Health Regulatory Authority (“NHRA”). As such, a comprehensive guideline on clinical trials using stem cells regulations (v.1 2019) (“CTSR”) was introduced by the NHRA, which sets out the conditions and requirements to operate a research platform using stems cells. The guidelines cover a range of legislative requirements for licensed medical institutions seeking to tackle clinical research trials of human non-embryonic autologous and allogenic based stem cell research.
Regenerative medicine is a branch of medical science that focuses on harnessing the body's natural healing abilities to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged tissues and organs. This field holds immense potential for treating conditions that were previously considered incurable, such as spinal cord injuries, heart diseases, and degenerative disorders.
The Regenerative Medicine Center in Bahrain is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of highly skilled professionals, including doctors, researchers, and technicians. The center offers a wide range of regenerative therapies, including stem cell therapy, tissue engineering, and gene therapy. The CTSR has mandated certifications required from medical facilities or entities permitted to operate the clinical trials. The NHRA has made it obligatory that institutions, such as Regenerative Medicine Center in Bahrain, demonstrate proof of adequate training in stem cells science or regenerative medicine, with conditions that the certain certificates are obtained such as ‘Good Tissue Practices’, ‘Current Good Manufacturing Practices, or ‘Good Laboratory Practices’.
Stem cell therapy, one of the most promising regenerative treatments, involves the use of stem cells to repair or replace damaged cells and tissues. These cells can be derived from various sources, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, or umbilical cord blood, which are compliant with the sources that CTSR permits for autologous stem cells in clinical trials. Under Article 83 of the CTSR, sources of stem cells shall include cord blood stem cells collected from umbilical cord, placenta and various human tissues after birth, which may include somatic stem cells for the production of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Moreover, NHRA is coordinating with overseas investors to establish a robust stem cell bank, ensuring a readily available supply of stem cells for the purposes of using them in the stem cell therapy.
Tissue engineering is another groundbreaking approach employed by the center. It involves the creation of functional tissues or organs in the laboratory using a combination of cells, scaffolds, and growth factors. This technique has the potential to revolutionize organ transplantation, as it eliminates the need for donors and reduces the risk of the body rejecting the transplant.
Gene therapy, on the other hand, focuses on correcting genetic defects that cause diseases. By introducing healthy genes into the patient's cells, this therapy aims to restore normal function and halt the progression of genetic disorders. The Regenerative Medicine Center in Bahrain is actively involved in research and clinical trials to develop effective gene therapies for a range of conditions. In March 2022, an International Conference on Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine was held in Bahrain, in which international leaders, experts, professors and researchers from around the world were in attendance.
By investing in advanced infrastructure and attracting top talent, Bahrain aims to become a regional hub for regenerative medicine and a destination for patients seeking cutting-edge treatments.
The establishment of the Regenerative Medicine Center in Bahrain is a testament to the Kingdom's commitment to providing novel healthcare solutions to its citizens and residents. By investing in advanced infrastructure and attracting top talent, Bahrain aims to become a regional hub for regenerative medicine and a destination for patients seeking cutting-edge treatments.
Moreover, the center's research and collaboration with international institutions contribute to the advancement of medical science and the development of new therapies. This not only benefits patients in Bahrain but also has the potential to impact healthcare globally.In addition to these advanced therapies, the center also emphasizes precise and targeted intervention. By tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their genetic makeup, lifestyle, and medical history, healthcare providers can achieve better outcomes and minimize side effects. Although this approach is particularly beneficial in regenerative medicine, the National Genome Center has taken the forefront in the field of targeted medication.
The National Genome Center in Bahrain is an institution dedicated to studying the human genome and its impact on health and disease. The human genome is the complete set of genetic information present in an individual's DNA, and understanding it can provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of diseases and guide personalized treatment plans.
One of the primary goals of the National Genome Center is to create a comprehensive database of genomic information from the Bahraini population. By collecting and analyzing genetic data from a diverse range of individuals, researchers can identify genetic variations that may be associated with specific diseases or drug responses. This information can then be used to develop targeted therapies and preventive measures. This can lead to more effective treatment outcomes and improved patient care.
The center employs advanced sequencing technologies to decode the genetic information of individuals. Whole-genome sequencing, which involves determining the complete DNA sequence of an individual, allows for a comprehensive analysis of the genome and provides a wealth of information about an individual's genetic makeup. This data can be used to identify genetic mutations, predict disease risk, and guide treatment decisions.
The center's research efforts contribute to the development of personalized medicine. By tailoring treatment plans to an individual's genetic profile, healthcare providers can optimize therapy selection, dosage, and duration, minimizing adverse effects and maximizing efficacy. This approach has the potential to revolutionize healthcare, shifting from a one-size-fits-all model to a more targeted and precise approach.
In addition to its research efforts, the National Genome Center also plays a crucial role in educating healthcare professionals and the public about genomics and precision medicine. By organizing workshops, seminars, and public awareness campaigns, the center aims to increase understanding and promote the integration of genomics into clinical practice. Furthermore, the National Genome Center fosters collaboration with international institutions and researchers, promoting knowledge exchange and advancing scientific discoveries. By participating in global genomics initiatives, Bahrain can contribute to the development of new therapies, diagnostic tools, and preventive strategies.
The establishment of the National Genome Center in Bahrain reflects the country's commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare. By investing in top-class infrastructure, attracting top talent, and prioritizing research and education, Bahrain aims to position itself as a regional leader in genomics and precision medicine.Moreover, the center's efforts align with the broader vision of Bahrain to transform into a knowledge-based economy. By leveraging genomics and precision medicine, Bahrain can attract investment, foster innovation, and create high-value job opportunities in the healthcare and biotechnology sectors.
Healthcare institutions must obtain consent from donors and recipients, as iterated by Declaration of Helsinki- the conventional ethical principles surrounding human experimentation and research using human biological material. Healthcare institutions will need to obtain consent from legal guardians of minors under the age of 21 years.
When obtaining consent from donors, recipients, or legal guardians, directives on the CTSR stipulate that consent forms must contain information related to biological and procedural risks, voluntary element by giving the right to withdraw at any stage of the trial and anonymization of the donor’s personal data. These directives would make the donor and recipients feel at ease when participating in the clinical trials.
The Regenerative Medicine Center in Bahrain is a beacon of hope for patients suffering from chronic diseases and injuries. With its focus on regenerative therapies and collaboration with international partners, the center is paving the way for novel healthcare solutions in the country and beyond. Bahrain's commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare is positioning it as a leader in the field of regenerative medicine. The National Genome Center in Bahrain is also pioneering institution that holds immense potential for advancing healthcare through genomics and precision medicine. By studying the human genome, collecting genetic data, and promoting personalized treatment approaches, the center is paving the way for improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. Bahrain's commitment to genomic research and precision medicine positions it as a leader in the field and offers hope for a healthier future for its citizens and residents. Although the Supreme Council of Health has permitted clinical trials on stem cells, there is yet to be regulation implemented with regards to permitting stem cell treatment in Bahrain.
For further information,please contact Christina Sochacki and Hiba Abid.
Published in January 2024
