Third Emirates Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant & Gene Therapy Congress Kicks Off in Abu Dhabi

Photo : WAM

The 3rd Emirates Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) and Gene Therapy Congress commenced today in Abu Dhabi, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to advancing pediatric healthcare through cutting-edge bone marrow transplant and gene therapy solutions. This significant two-day event brings together over 600 leading experts in pediatric hematology, oncology, and transplant medicine from 24 countries, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among some of the most prominent voices in the field.

Held in association with prestigious global institutions, the congress has secured partnerships with renowned hospitals such as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Texas Children’s Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Children’s, SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Cincinnati Children’s, and Egypt’s National Cancer Institute Cairo. This network of partnerships highlights the event's global influence and strengthens the UAE’s role as a hub for advanced pediatric medical care.

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Dr. Zainul Aabideen, Consultant and Head of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and BMT at Burjeel Medical City (BMC), who serves as the Conference Chair, expressed pride in the UAE’s progress in pediatric bone marrow transplants. He reflected on the country’s journey since Burjeel Medical City performed its first pediatric bone marrow transplant in 2022. "With the support of our dedicated medical teams and authorities, the UAE has achieved substantial growth in BMT capabilities, which enables us to help more children locally and across the region," Dr. Aabideen noted. He further shared insights into his team’s success in treating over 50 children from 18 different countries, showcasing the expertise and advancements that have positioned the UAE as a leading center for pediatric transplant care.

Professor Rupert Handgretinger, Professor Emeritus at Children’s University Hospital in Germany and Conference Co-Chair, emphasized the congress’s value in bringing together international experts. “This congress is not only a platform to highlight the UAE’s healthcare accomplishments but also an opportunity to strengthen our clinical expertise by exchanging knowledge with global specialists. Such collaborations will be pivotal in enhancing pediatric care across the region,” Professor Handgretinger stated.

The congress includes a wide array of sessions and discussions centered on emerging trends and breakthrough advancements in pediatric BMT and gene therapy. Among the topics are recent developments in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) strategies for addressing malignant and non-malignant conditions, including hemoglobinopathies, immune deficiencies, and metabolic disorders. The congress will also feature the latest innovations in gene therapies, with sessions on ex vivo gene therapy for hemoglobinopathies and advancements in CAR T-cell therapy, which are promising for pediatric solid tumor treatment.

In addition to cutting-edge treatment approaches, the congress will address significant challenges in cellular therapy and clinical trials, particularly in terms of harmonizing scientific, regulatory, and clinical practices to expand global access to advanced therapies. Other key discussions will explore the management of long-term patient care, post-transplant complications, and valuable insights from the global pediatric BMT community. Notably, the congress will recognize the top three research papers presented, celebrating innovation and research excellence.

This two-day gathering of distinguished professionals from North America, Europe, and the Middle East is expected to foster new collaborations and inspire future innovations in pediatric bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy. Through these discussions, the congress aims to contribute to better treatment outcomes for young patients worldwide, setting a foundation for continued progress in pediatric healthcare.