UAE Unveils First AI-Discovered Drug Candidate, Strengthening Global Biotech Position
UAE, Dubai: The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has announced the successful development of the UAE’s first fully AI-discovered drug candidate, ISM0387, by a research team at Insilico Medicine. This groundbreaking achievement marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s transition from merely adopting advanced technologies to actively utilizing them for the creation of innovative pharmaceutical solutions and intellectual property.
Scientific Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment
ISM0387 is an advanced inhibitor targeting the PRMT5 enzyme, designed to exploit synthetic lethality by focusing on tumors associated with MTAP gene deletion. This mechanism enhances its selective action against cancer cells while minimizing effects on healthy cells. The compound shows significant promise in addressing solid tumors, particularly aggressive brain cancers, which are notoriously resistant to treatment.
Notably, ISM0387 demonstrates advanced properties that facilitate effective penetration of the blood-brain barrier. Preclinical studies indicate strong, dose-dependent efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth, with clear tumor suppression observed when administered at a daily dose of 30 mg/kg over a 20-day period in animal models. These results bolster its potential for further development in clinical phases and its applicability in treating central nervous system-related diseases.
AI-Powered Drug Development
The development of ISM0387 utilized Insilico Medicine’s Chemistry42 platform, which integrates over 40 generative AI models to analyze complex biological and chemical data. The entire discovery process was conducted within the UAE, encompassing biological target identification, molecular design, optimization, and the final nomination of the preclinical candidate (PCC). This comprehensive approach underscores the UAE’s growing capability to deliver a complete drug discovery pipeline that meets international standards.
Transformational Shift in Drug Discovery
This milestone illustrates the significant impact of generative AI on expediting the drug discovery process. The research team completed the compound discovery phase in approximately six months, generating and testing over 90 potential molecules using advanced AI models. Traditionally, this stage can take more than four years. The entire development process, from molecule design to drug candidate selection, was finalized in less than 12 months. In contrast, conventional drug development typically exceeds 10 years and can cost over $1 billion to bring a single treatment to market.
Enabling Ecosystem for Innovation
This research initiative results from ongoing scientific efforts led by Insilico Medicine, in collaboration with the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE). Through its regulatory frameworks, EDE has fostered a flexible environment conducive to innovation. This progress is supported by a broader national ecosystem, including the establishment of advanced biotechnology infrastructure and enhanced collaboration with key national entities. Collectively, these efforts are cultivating a connected and globally competitive pharmaceutical innovation sector in the UAE.
H.E. Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, Minister of State and Chairman of the Emirates Drug Establishment, emphasized that this achievement will enhance the UAE’s position in global biotech value chains. He noted that the country is building knowledge-based capabilities that reinforce its role as an active partner in developing pharmaceutical solutions and expanding its global influence. Al Hajeri remarked that this progress illustrates the maturity of a national model that integrates scientific research with regulatory and investment frameworks, enabling faster real-world applications of scientific discoveries.
H.E. Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of the Emirates Drug Establishment, stated that this development signifies the UAE’s growing ability to produce medicines locally, supported by advanced technologies that improve the efficiency and accuracy of discovery processes while reducing time and costs. She added that this milestone transcends the creation of new treatments, reflecting ongoing efforts to establish a robust national system that redefines pharmaceutical security, transitioning from merely ensuring supply to developing and sustaining it locally.
Dr. Sheikha Al Mazrouei, Director of the Research and Laboratories Department at the Emirates Drug Establishment, highlighted that the collaboration with Insilico Medicine employs generative models and reinforcement learning to analyze biological, chemical, and clinical data. This collaboration aids in developing drug compounds that are more precise regarding effectiveness and safety.
Dr. Alex Aliper, Co-founder and President of Insilico Medicine, noted that this achievement represents a turning point in global drug development. He stated that it demonstrates the effectiveness of generative AI in enhancing drug discovery processes by reducing time and overcoming traditional challenges. Aliper emphasized that the accomplishments in the UAE illustrate that countries investing in research infrastructure and advanced technologies can produce world-class treatment solutions in record time.
This development not only has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry but also opens avenues for more precise and effective treatment options for patients in the future. It underscores the UAE’s capability to transform advanced technologies into valuable pharmaceutical solutions, enhancing drug security and solidifying the country’s role as a hub for knowledge-based and innovation-driven pharmaceutical industries.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-04-23 20:17:00 • By the Editorial Desk
