Link between COVID-19 and genetic variations examined

An international collaboration between biobanks has challenged a previous finding on a potential genetic basis for COVID-19 severity.

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Research highlights

KAIMRC Innovations highlights the most exciting research taking place at the different research centers in KAIMRC. The research highlights are informative articles that cover breakthrough research and are accessible to the wider science community and a general audience interested in science. With regular weekly updates, this is the place to keep up with the best clinical and medical research happening at KAIMRC and around the world.

Select Research highlights

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Adult vaccination to tackle bacterial diseases

March 14, 2022

While pediatric vaccination programs in the MENA region have drastically reduced preventable diseases, adult vaccination programs lag behind.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Finding links between genes and diseases

February 14, 2022

Genetic sequencing and disease diagnosis databases help to identify new links

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are ineffective against COVID-19 and possibly harmful

February 7, 2022

A meta-analysis of clinical trial results shows that hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine are of no benefit to COVID-19 patients.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A protein with power over blood vessels

January 24, 2022

Insights into an ion channel protein in blood vessels could lead to better understanding of vascular disease

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Delivering safer and more effective chemotherapy via nanoparticle drug carriers

January 17, 2022

Porous magnetic nanoparticles could carry cancer drugs directly into tumours while avoiding damage to healthy cells

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Promising nanoparticle carrier for chemo drug

January 10, 2022

Using nanoparticles to deliver the existing chemotherapy drug epirubicin could improve its efficacy and safety

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Anticoagulant satisfaction survey translated into Arabic

January 3, 2022

The quality of life of Arabic patients on long-term anticoagulant drugs can be comprehensively assessed by a translated version of an international satisfaction scale

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A look at COVID-19-related ethics

December 27, 2021

A new study explores the ethical challenges posed by the pandemic for healthcare providers and medical researchers across the Kingdom.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Genetic clues to better tackle SARS-CoV-2

December 20, 2021

Spike protein gene sequences could help control the novel coronavirus epidemic

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Tiny carriers to fast-track cancer vaccine delivery

December 13, 2021

Smaller, smarter cancer vaccines

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Room for improvement in lung cancer treatment

December 6, 2021

A large multinational study reveals the diversity in treatment practices and outcomes in stage III non-small-cell lung cancer patients in low- and middle-income countries.

International Research Highlight

Reviewing rapid COVID-19 tests

November 22, 2021

Point-of-care tests offer speed and practicality over lab-based PCR testing, with some caveats.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Trial begins on antiviral drug for COVID-19

November 15, 2021

A clinical trial in Saudi Arabia will examine the efficacy of an existing antiviral in treating mild COVID-19

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Genomic tests to help Saudis with healthy births

November 8, 2021

A new screening service offers the country’s first prenatal and pre-implantation genetic tests to pregnant women, and couples undergoing IVF

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Optimizing treatment regimens for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

November 1, 2021

A multinational study shows that radiotherapy with chemotherapy before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation improves the survival of children ...

International Research Highlight

Existing drugs may help with COVID-19 treatment

October 18, 2021

Computational screening of SARS-CoV-2 genomes identified several proteins which could be targeted by existing drugs to treat COVID-19

KAIMRC Research Highlight

New model predicts the risk of blood thinners for Arabs

October 11, 2021

A novel model that predicts bleeding risk in Arab patients taking direct oral anticoagulants shows good sensitivity and specificity.

International Research Highlight

Combined therapy boosts kidney cancer survival rates

October 7, 2021

A global phase 3 clinical trial demonstrates the efficacy of a novel combined therapy for advanced kidney cancer

International Research Highlight

A dynamic duo to fight MERS

September 30, 2021

Experiments in mice suggest that a two-antibody cocktail could prevent infection with the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Immune checkpoint inhibitors cause mild to severe side effects

September 23, 2021

A small Saudi study shows that the cancer therapy commonly causes mild side effects but sometimes more severe side effects

International Research Highlight

How melanoma manipulates its way to metastasis

September 16, 2021

A growth factor secreted by melanoma cells makes the immune system ignore metastasis

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A molecular link between diabetes, obesity, and cellular aging

September 9, 2021

Obese people and type-2 diabetes patients have high levels of LMNA, a protein associated with cellular aging

KAIMRC Research Highlight

MERS remains prevalent in camels in Saudi Arabia

September 2, 2021

A survey of slaughterhouses in Riyadh reveals continued risk of zoonotic transmission

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Animating the inanimate

August 19, 202

Swimming crystalline microwires could be the progenitors of futuristic microrobotics systems.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A properly packaged mix overcomes antibiotic-resistant bacteria

August 12, 2021

Liposomes carrying the right drug combination could help in the fight against drug-resistant microbes

International Research Highlight

Nanotechnology prevents preterm birth in mice

August 5, 2021

Formulation helps overcome mucus barriers for targeted drug delivery

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Better animal models for COVID-19 needed 

July 29, 2021

The lack of severe illness in animal models of COVID-19 suggests a wide gap between the disease in humans and animal models.

International Research Highlight

Optimizing influenza vaccines to harness pre-existing immunity

July 22, 2021

Understanding how immune cells respond to natural infection compared with vaccination demonstrates how vaccines could broader immunity

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Seatbelt use in Saudi Arabia remains low

July 15, 2021

A survey reveals that young adults, women and people suffering from depression and anxiety are less likely to buckle up

International Research Highlight

COVID-19 impact does not end with hospital discharge

July 8, 2021

Hospital discharge could still mean a long way to full recovery for severe COVID-19 patients

International Research Highlight

DNA sequencing accelerates infection diagnosis

July 1, 2021

Detection of pathogenic genetic material in body fluids could speed up treatment of serious infections

International Research Highlight

A fatty diet disturbs circadian brain metabolism

June 24, 2021

A high-fat diet changes metabolic oscillations in brain regions that control circadian rhythms.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Investigating the factors affecting burn patient survival

June 17, 2021

Data from patients on mechanical ventilation offers insight into factors affecting survival

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Charting antibiotic resistance in circulating bacterial strains

June 10, 2021

Sequencing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains from a Riyadh hospital highlights genes that confer resistance to multiple antibiotics

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Sequencing immune system genes for stem-cell transplant success

June 3, 2021

equence data from immune system genes of nearly 29,000 Saudi stem cell donors will help match them to patients.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A key role for microglia in childhood glaucoma 

May 27, 2021

The mutation in most Saudi children with primary congenital glaucoma disrupts optic nerve development through its effect on microglia

KAIMRC Research Highlight

An artificially intelligent route to better prediction of diabetes risk

May 19, 2021

A neural network model developed at KAIMRC can identify patients at risk of diabetes with unprecedented accuracy

KAIMRC Research Highlight

COVID-19 infection rate was low among healthcare workers early in the pandemic

May 12, 2021

Masks, lockdown and vigilance attributed for curbing infection rates among healthcare workers across Saudi Arabia. 

International Research Highlight

AI-supported decision-making improves skin cancer diagnosis

May 5, 2021

Researchers showcase a framework for image-based AI systems to assist doctors deliver more accurate diagnoses.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

How a single mutation causes diabetes

April 28, 2021

A single mutation shifts the expression of several genes and induces hereditary diabetes in young children

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Diverse disorders from a single source

April 21, 2021

Investigation of a complex developmental disorder gives researchers deeper insight into a multi-functional protein linked to many essential cellular processes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Family support hastens recovery

April 14, 2021

Family ties are key for successful recovery from injuries that can lead to temporary or permanent disability.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Ramadan guidance for Muslims with diabetes

April 7, 2021

Researchers have published the first comprehensive guidelines for the clinical management of type-1 diabetes during Ramadan.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Multidrug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae found in Saudi patient

March 31, 2021

Cases of a worrying form of multidrug resistant bacterial infection have been detected in Saudi Arabia

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Uptick in lab-confirmed seroprevalence of MERS infections 

March 24, 2021

A trend of increasing MERS prevalence has been detected in a West Saudi Arabian population after testing more than 7,000 samples.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A novel immune disorder

March 17, 2021

Mutation of a gene related to cell structure leads to immunodeficiency and hyperinflammation

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Prevalence of blood clotting after hip procedures

March 10, 2021

Venous thromboembolism after hip procedures is not abnormally  common in Saudi Arabia

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Measures needed to reduce road casualties

March 3, 2021

Study highlights global disparities in improving traffic safety

International Research Highlight

Cheaper, better screening of type 1 diabetes in high-risk children

February 24, 2021

A low-cost model combining genetic, clinical, and immunological risk factors could help predict type 1 diabetes

International Research Highlight

Reducing the STING of cancer therapy

February 18, 2021

Packaging cancer therapy within injectable microcubes mitigates the need for multiple invasive treatments

KAIMRC Research Highlight

IVF conception does not affect educational outcomes of premature children

February 18, 2021

In vitro fertilization (IVF) has no impact on whether children born very prematurely will go ...

International Research Highlight

AI algorithms for rapid coronavirus diagnosis

February 3, 2021

Researchers use advanced deep learning models to create an AI system that can help identify COVID-19 in minutes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Finding the sweet spot for clinical genomics

January 27, 2021

An assessment of genome sequencing strategies reveals the most cost-effective approach for diagnosing hereditary disorders.

International Research Highlight

Investigating COVID-19 immune responses

January 20, 2021

An in-depth analysis of the COVID-19 immune response offers new tools to clinicians.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Proteins provide an early warning of bladder cancer

January 13, 2021

Blood-based protein test could help with diagnosis and treatment

International Research Highlight

Uncovering trends in antibiotic consumption

January 6, 2021

Study assesses global antibiotic consumption patterns over a 15-year period.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Knowledge gaps over treating severe respiratory infections

December 30, 2020

Researchers call for trials to investigate the efficacy of treatments for severe respiratory viral infections.

International Research Highlight

Measuring the risk of contracting latent tuberculosis in clinical training

December 23, 2020

Medical students face a greater risk of being infected with TB bacteria than trainees in other specializations

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Improved delivery of cancer drugs

December 16, 2020

Nanoparticles made of two materials improve the safety of a common cancer drug

International Research Highlight

Finding the correct warfarin dose for Saudi patients

December 9, 2020

A pharmacogenetics study involving a cohort of Saudi recipients of the drug warfarin provides valuable insights into dosing and effectiveness

International Research Highlight

Gut microbe transplant treats graft versus host disease

December 2, 2020

Faecal bacteria from healthy donors can save the lives of blood stem cell transplant recipients

International Research Highlight

Profiling a rare genetic disorder

November 25, 2020

A deep dive into data about a rare amino acid deficiency points the way towards early diagnosis and drug discovery

International Research Highlight

Hair-growing skin produced from human stem cells

November 18, 2020

Complete skin-in-a-dish tissue offers new options for wound healing, genetic skin conditions and baldness. 

International Research Highlight

T cells recognize the COVID-19 virus before and after infection 

November 11, 202

SARS-CoV-2 triggers a strong T cell-based immune response, but many people already have some cross-reactive immune memory

International Research Highlight

Pinning down a genetic cause of increased prostate cancer risk 

November 4, 2020

Propensity hinges on the regulatory role of a rare genetic variant

International Research Highlight

Finding genetic leads for severe coronavirus cases 

October 28, 2020

Respiratory failure in some COVID-19 patients could be associated to their genetic profile.

International Research Highlight

New gene database to inform bespoke treatments

October 21, 2020

A global reference showing the variation of immune system genes across populations will improve personalized medicine and transplant outcomes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Saudi Diabetes Risk Score predicts individuals at risk

October 14, 2020

Saudi researchers have developed a tool to identify adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A close look at peritonitis in Saudi Arabia

October 7, 2020

Identifying high rates of peritonitis in children undergoing dialysis at a Saudi hospital will stimulate a strategy for improvement

KAIMRC Research Highlight

High post-surgical infection levels in Saudi Arabia

September 30, 2020

Antibiotic resistant bacteria are widespread in surgical-site infections in Saudi Arabian hospitals

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Building on experience: Saudi Arabia’s COVID-19 response

September 23, 2020

The knowledge gained from the MERS-CoV epidemic in Saudi Arabia put the country on a strong early response footing for COVID-19.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Testing the spread of MERS in camels

September 16, 2020

A natural infection model provides insights into how MERS spreads among camels and could be valuable in future vaccine trials.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Diabetes: Identifying complications early

September 9, 2020

The high incidence of childhood diabetic ketoacidosis in Saudi Arabia highlights the need for interventions to prevent this dangerous complication of type 1 diabetes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Parental stress linked to health outcomes for children with type 1 diabetes

September 2, 2020

Improved parental wellbeing could lead to better management of type 1 diabetes in children. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A close look at leukaemia in Saudi Arabia

August 26, 2020

Saudi researchers examine records of leukaemia cases in the kingdom over the past 15 years.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Uncovering the genetic roots of metal metabolic disorders

August 12, 2020

Next-generation sequencing sheds light on genetic disorders associated with metals, paving the way to new therapeutic approaches.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Nix the mix

August 4, 2020

Vitamin D testing does not require the mixing of samples, a finding that could save lab technicians time and effort.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Placenta stem cells can be trained to better fight cancers

July 29, 2020

Stem cells that usually protect the human foetus could be pre-conditioned to enhance their abilities to combat tumours.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Searching for signatures of a rare disease

July 22, 2020

DNA sequencing can reveal mutations underlying a vitamin deficiency in newborns, but its rarity makes the value of population-scale testing unclear

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Speedy test for antibiotic resistance

July 14, 2020

A test for antibiotic-resistant bacteria shows scope for further development

International Research Highlight

Supercharged immune cells to fight lymphoma

July 7, 2020

An immunotherapy approach, based on adapting a patient’s immune cells to tackle specific cancer cells, shows promise against rare lymphoma.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Microparticles pack a big punch

June 28, 2020

Saudi researchers have developed tiny iron oxide particles that can carry multiple drugs deep into the core of tumours

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Oral magnesium is not an effective asthma treatment

June 22, 2020

Despite low magnesium levels being linked to asthma cases, new research shows that oral magnesium supplements have no effect on the condition

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Stem-cell boost to immune cells could help quell cancer

June 15, 2020

Stimulating immune cells with placental stem cells could enhance the body’s natural anti-cancer activity

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The molecular mechanism linking melatonin and memory

May 31, 2020

Revealing how melatonin alleviates memory defects opens new therapeutic avenues

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The battle of the diagnostics

May 24, 2020

New study compares CT scans with MRIs for cervical spine injury detection in unconscious paediatric patients

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Streamlining care for the critically ill

May 17, 2020

More treatment is not always better, finds a Saudi-led trial into the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Diagnostics: Nix the mix

May 4, 2020

Vitamin D testing does not require the mixing of samples, a finding that could save lab technicians time and effort.

International Research Highlight

Stem cell therapy: Insights into heart repair mechanisms

April 21, 2020

The injection of stem cells into the heart following cardiac arrest induces an innate immune response that helps repair damaged tissues.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Salmonella in the spotlight

April 12, 2020

Study investigating Salmonella serotypes in Saudi Arabia could lead to a reduction in food-borne illness, and the development of a vaccine.

International Research Highlight

Artificial intelligence enhances in-surgery tumour analysis

April 5, 2020

An automated system can provide diagnostic information during surgery for a brain tumour with a similar accuracy to pathologists.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A roadmap for public safety

March 29, 2020

Seatbelts and eschewing mobile phones are essential for reducing injury toll

KAIMRC Research Highlight

MERS virus shrugs off antibiotic assault 

March 24, 2020

Macrolide antibiotics cannot effectively fight MERS-CoV, study shows.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A new booster for Hodgkin lymphoma patients

March 18, 2020

Adding a known antibody-drug conjugate to a standard chemotherapy regimen may help overcome drug resistance, new research shows.

International Research Highlight

A mother’s protective gift to pre-term babies

March 10, 2020

Preterm babies have a similar arsenal of maternal antibodies to those of full-term babies, suggesting that their higher infection risk is due to other factors.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Laying bare the skeleton foundations

February 16, 2020

New research concludes that the proper organization of the cell skeleton during bone cell formation is regulated by TGFβ1, a key growth factor

International Research Highlight

Birth weight estimates updated

January 23, 2020

New research provides more accurate charts for assessing birth weight based on updated information to identify need for infant care

International Research Highlight

The mental toll of conflict

January 23, 2020

Updated WHO estimates show mental disorders are three times more common in conflict settings.

International Research Highlight

A rocking good sleep

January 12, 2020

Study reveals that the gentle rocking motion that soothes children to sleep works just as well for adults, and also keeps their memory strong.  

International Research Highlight

Wearing diabetes care lightly

December 30, 2019

A new wearable, flexible nanosensor could help monitor glucose levels without the need for blood tests

KAIMRC Research Highlight

MAT Deficiency: Wider effects of a rare disease

December 12, 2019

A case of a rare childhood disease reveals a new mutation as underlying cause and  identifies unknown manifestations of the disease on the skin and hair.

International Research Highlight

An instigator for immunodeficiency

December 8, 2019

A genomic survey of immunodeficient patients reveals a gene with an important role in fending off infection and controlling inflammation

International Research Highlight

What doesn’t kill your ancestors makes you stronger

December 1, 2019

Stressed-out fence lizards inadvertently give younger generations a better chance against predators. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Curbing excessive antimicrobial use 

November 20, 2019

High levels of antibiotic use in intensive care units across Saudi Arabia are exacerbating the antibiotic resistance problem.

International Research Highlight

Slim chance of defying genetic odds in the weight game 

November 17, 2019

Staying thin may not be the result of sheer willpower. A new study shows that maintaining a healthy weight can come down to genetics.

International Research Highlight

Heartening findings on an aortic surgery alternative

November 10, 2019

A minimally invasive alternative to heart surgery may offer better outcomes for treating a broader range of patients with aortic stenosis 

International Research Highlight

Brains of blind people adapt to sharpen sense of hearing

November 6, 2019

People with impaired vision have sharpened and nuanced sense of hearing.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Gene mutation associated with fertility

October 27, 2019

A mutation in a gene encoding a cell surface receptor disrupts the growth of lymphatic vessels and linked to miscarriage.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Saudi Arabia gets familiar with its superbugs

October 22, 2019

First study to examine the antibiotic resistance, virulence factors, and genetic diversity of multidrug-resistant strains in Saudi Arabia

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Stem cells marshal troops against cancer

October 13, 2019

A recently identified population of adult stem cells generates signals that could spur immunity against tumour cells

International Research Highlight

Rotavirus vaccine could help prevent type 1 diabetes 

October 1, 2019

Rotavirus vaccine is showing a correlation with a reduction in type 1 diabetes incidents among infants. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Bacteria in sperm hinders fertility treatment

September 29, 2019

The presence of bacteria in semen reduces sperm quality with a knock-on effect on the success of IVF treatments

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The rapid journey of a deadly MERS outbreak

September 24, 2019

Citing an unusual outbreak of the MERS virus involving a ‘superspreader’ patient, scientists urge better point-of-care diagnosis.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Hungry for heart health

September 15, 2019

Study in rats shows that hunger hormone helps preserve cardiac muscle cells and reduce heart attack damage

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The psychological toll of MS

September 8, 2019

Saudi researchers examine the severity of depression among multiple sclerosis patients. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A gracious host for Middle East respiratory syndrome

August 26, 2019

Kidney tissues could support the growth of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The psychological challenges of epilepsy

August 17, 2019

A common form of epilepsy is associated with emotional and behavioural problems in children.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Paying heed to chest pain

August 14, 2019

Even without serious artery blockage, chest pain is often a harbinger of deadly heart disease.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The many faces of a mitochondrial mutation

August 4, 2019

A rare gene mutation affecting a mitochondrial transporter could be more common than previously thought. 

International Research Highlight

Revealing the missing heritability of colorectal cancer

July 21, 2019

Diagnosis of colorectal cancer may improve following the discovery of two gene mutations.

International Research Highlight

Heart disease: Link with air pollution spikes in China

July 14, 2019

A study covering 26 large cities in China links short-term exposure to air pollution with increased hospital admissions for heart failure.

International Research Highlight

Targeting hepatitis B virus vulnerabilities

July 8, 2019

Metabolic pathways altered by chronic hepatitis B virus infection may give clues to novel treatment.

International Research Highlight

An effective solution for marrow transplantation

July 1, 2019

A combination of young and adult donor stem cells offers robust, safe treatment for lymphoma patients lacking closely matching donors.

International Research Highlight

Trimming the stomach lining to fight fat

June 26, 2019

Research suggests that targeting the stomach lining may alleviate obesity.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Saudi Arabia worst hit by MERS

June 17, 2019

A study on the prevalence of MERS-CoV in Gulf Corporation Council countries shows the virus has taken its greatest toll in Saudi Arabia.

International Research Highlight

Colorectal cancer: Overweight young people at risk

June 9, 2019

Being overweight before the age of 30 may increase the chances of developing colon cancer later in life. 

International Research Highlight

Profiling the evolution of breast cancer cells

June 2, 2019

Genetic profiling of breast cancer metastases provides insight that could help improve treatment.

International Research Highlight

Uncovering the drivers of primary tumour growth

May 26, 2019

Key proteins could contribute to much earlier cancer progression than previously thought. 

International Research Highlight

Multiple sclerosis: An exercise in brain protection

May 19, 2019

Exercise for people with multiple sclerosis protects against degeneration and improves physical function. 

International Research Highlight

The immune sting of WASp

May 12, 2019

A protein implicated in a range of immune diseases proves essential for proper T-cell development.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Cardiovascular health: The power of machine learning 

May 5, 2019

Machine learning accurately predicts the association between cardio-respiratory fitness and mortality.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Nuclear protein modulates cell fate and identity

April 21, 2019

A cellular protein involved in anchoring chromosomal material to the inside of the nuclear membrane is important for determining a cell’s fate. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

More cases of a debilitating genetic disorder 

April 14, 2019

Mitochondrial DNA plays an essential role in human physiology, with devastating consequences when it is disrupted.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A vital test for spinal muscular atrophy

April 7, 2019

A new chip-based sensor could detect and monitor spinal muscular atrophy faster and more cheaply than current methods.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

More cases of a debilitating genetic disorder 

April 2, 2019

Mitochondrial DNA plays an essential role in human physiology, with devastating consequences when it is disrupted.

International Research Highlight

Dangerous trends in worldwide childhood obesity

March 24, 2019

There are more underweight than obese children in the world, but the balance could change in just five years. 

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Western strain of hepatitis C on the rise in Saudi Arabia

March 17, 2019

National efforts to curb transmission are in place to limit the virus’s spread.

International Research Highlight

Breakthrough in bone marrow mapping 

March 10, 2019

New 3D imaging shows how cells, tissues and proteins are distributed within bone marrow. 

International Research Highlight

Obesity and diabetes: Heading for the fast burn 

March 3, 2019

Incorporating periods of fasting into diets shows potential as a means of halting the progression of metabolic diseases. 

International Research Highlight

Genetic make-up and its impact on viral infection

February 12, 2019

A fast and simple approach for analysing people’s genetic make-up and the viruses that infect them could reveal molecular information that can be used to improve prevention and treatment of disease.

International Research Highlight

Investigating immune responses

February 12, 2019

A molecule produced by hepatitis B virus prompts the body’s immune cells to leap into action.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

When liver disease patients fall off the medical radar

February 11, 2019

People with viral hepatitis often do not return for follow-up treatment, highlighting the need for more robust support strategies.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Antibiotic resistance: Tracking drug sensitivity in E. coli

February 11, 2019

Analyses of E. coli samples from Saudi hospital patients indicate large increases in resistance to first-line antibiotics.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Single gene defect found for unexplained dwarfism

February 11, 2019

Mutations in a DNA replication gene cause a rare developmental disorder seen in Saudi children.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

HIV resistance gene uncommon among Saudis

February 11, 2019

Routine screening in stem cell registries for a mutation that could help treat HIV/AIDS is not warranted in Saudi Arabia because of its rarity in this population.

International Research Highlight

Loss of synaptic ‘caretaker’ leads to fatal infant brain injury

February 11, 2019

A rare genetic mutation that impairs communication between neurons could provide insight into Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

International Research Highlight

In search of strategies to disrupt viral docking

February 11, 2019

Insights into how two viruses initiate the infection of host cells could guide development of countermeasures.

International Research Highlight

Improving stem cell donation

February 10, 2019

Stem cells could be collected from donors more safely by using a less invasive catheter.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Exercise helps cancer patients lead happier lives

February 10, 2019

One of the first quality-of-life studies into Saudi cancer sufferers shows exercise and family support help.

International Research Highlight

Weight loss surgery may reduce heart disease risk

February 10, 2019

Data suggests gastric bypass surgery reduces by half the risk of developing congestive heart failure.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A step closer to stem cell therapies for bone disease

February 10, 2019

Controlling a protein’s levels could guide stem cell differentiation for treatment of bone disease.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Managing salivary gland damage

February 10, 2019

Drugs that stimulate saliva production are the most effective treatment option for managing damage caused by radiotherapy.

International Research Highlight

A viral vector to fall back on

February 10, 2019

A highly efficient method for delivering genetic materials to the spinal cord may help in the treatment of an inherited muscle-wasting disease.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Coping with adversity

February 10, 2019

A Saudi study finds that adverse childhood experiences affect men and women in different ways.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Copycat mutation masquerades as multiple sclerosis

February 10, 2019

A mutation found in two Saudi brothers is believed to have led to misdiagnosing cerebellar ataxia as multiple sclerosis.

International Research Highlight

Mining big data highlights importance of ‘junk DNA’

February 10, 2019

An exploratory bioinformatics investigation suggests ‘junk DNA’ plays a critical role in early embryonic development and species evolution.

International Research Highlight

Injury prevention could stem opioid abus

February 10, 2019

People are 1.4 times more likely to become persistent users of opioid painkillers after suffering a traumatic injury.

International Research Highlight

Filling in the microbial gaps

February 10, 2019

A new survey of the microbiome offers insights into its diversity and the interplay between bacteria and their human hosts.

International Research Highlight

A personalized prescription for cancer treatment

February 9, 2019

'Mini organ' technique provides insight into the molecular basis of bowel cancer, and hope for future treatment.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Timing treatment perfectly

February 8, 2019

Understanding how leukaemia affects the body’s circadian clock may unlock ways to treat the disease.

International Research Highlight

Tumours activate neurons to trigger appetite loss

February 7, 2019

Blocking a population of neurons in the brain could help treat anorexia and weight loss caused by cancer.

International Research Highlight

Exercising young protects heart later in life

February 6, 2019

Exercising when young can greatly reduce the risk of developing ischaemic heart disease in adulthood.

International Research Highlight

Hope for holding back hyperglycaemia

February 6, 2019

A two-drug combination that preserves and stimulates pancreatic function could offer a new option for treating type I diabetes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Learning to predict diabetes

February 4, 2019

Machine learning could be used to identify high-risk patients and improve healthcare services.

International Research Highlight

Antibody could have dual role

January 30, 2019

An antibody that blocks the effect of follicle stimulating hormone may simultaneously treat obesity and osteoporosis.

International Research Highlight

Exposure to ‘nonstick’ chemical risky for foetal health

January 20, 2019

Maternal exposure to chemicals widely used in consumer products and industries disrupts steroid hormone levels in babies’ cord blood.

International Research Highlight

Zeroing in on risk factors for pancreatic cancer

January 20, 2019

Large gene databases help researchers discern lifestyle traits that cause pancreatic cancer.

International Research Highlight

Nanomedicine: A two-headed force against lung cancer

January 16, 2019

Nanocarriers that can transport precise doses of two drugs may prove effective against lung tumours.

International Research Highlight

Brain training at home helps multiple sclerosis

January 16, 2019

Cognitive impairment caused by multiple sclerosis can be improved with a computer-based brain-training system accessible at home.

International Research Highlight

Ischemic stroke: Examining brain inflammation

January 9, 2019

Scientists in Japan identify a signalling pathway that may provide a target for reducing inflammation in the brain following ischemic stroke.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Combating MERS in camels with a single-dose vaccine

January 9, 2019

Anti-MERS vaccines for camels could be optimized by varying their viral and DNA content, and adjusting their administration.

International Research Highlight

Running sensors on patient power

October 8, 2017

Sensors that generate electricity from the digestive tract may enable long-term monitoring of patient health.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Twenty new mutations implicated in rare genetic disease

October 3, 2017

Study finds mutations in a rare inherited disease called pyroglutamic aciduria.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Saudis and the transfusion advantage

October 1, 2017

Transfusions are more likely to succeed in Saudi blood cancer patients thanks to a lack of genetic diversity.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

How to tell bone marrow cells apart

September 28, 2017

Stem cells in the bone marrow express different molecular markers depending on whether they form bone or other tissue types.Abbr

KAIMRC Research Highlight

MERS virus evades immune responses

September 26, 2017

A single surface protein helps the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) survive by inhibiting the immune system.

International Research Highlight

Determining the roots of derailed development

September 23, 2017

Mutational profiling allows researchers to home in on a protein domain with a critical role in human neurological development.

International Research Highlight

Hope for restoring immune defenses in hepatitis

September 20, 2017

Antioxidants might reverse changes in immune cells that allow hepatitis B virus to persist.

International Research Highlight

Grape-derived antiviral drug could treat MERS

September 10, 2017

Initial investigations show an antiviral drug, derived from grape and cranberry plants, could also be effective against the virus that causes MERS.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

New mutation linked to Leigh syndrome

September 7, 2017

A new mutation causing Leigh syndrome has been detected in two newborns in Saudi Arabia.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Nanocarriers to light up and treat disease

September 6, 2017

Cancer and other diseases could be diagnosed, treated and monitored by multi-tasking biodegradable nanoparticles.

International Research Highlight

Demystifying a diet to live by

August 21, 2017

A new connection is found between sensory neurons, diet and longevity.

International Research Highlight

Understanding a neurological disease via the drugs that treat it

July 13, 2017

Novel antibacterial properties in existing multiple sclerosis treatments hint at a possible cause of the disease.

International Research Highlight

Gene mutations linked to spread of colorectal cancer

July 10, 2017

Test could identify colorectal cancer patients with most to gain from chemotherapy.

International Research Highlight

Going with the flow in brain mapping

July 9, 2017

Recording changes in cerebral blood flow makes mapping active brain areas possible during visual stimulation.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

DNA circles help predict stem cell therapy outcomes

June 24, 2017

DNA ringlets carried by immune cells could provide routine insight into the progress of stem-cell-based immunotherapy.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Keeping a close eye on diabetes complications

June 22, 2017

Survey highlights link between molecular markers and potential complications of type II diabetes.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Understanding the genetics of congenital heart defects

June 18, 2017

New evidence traces congenital heart defects to healthy parents.

International Research Highlight

Clamping down on post-stroke infections

June 10, 2017

Specialized cells that impair the immune system after a stroke could be targeted to protect patients from infection.

International Research Highlight

Widening the net

June 9, 2017

A novel strategy seeks therapeutic targets in cancers by examining the genes retained in their genomes.

International Research Highlight

Raising the bar for gene therapy tests

June 7, 2017

Researchers develop a strategy to improve contamination detection in gene-doping tests.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Unravelling the mysteries ofintellectual disorders

June 4, 2017

DNA sequencing offers diagnoses and treatments for patients with unexplained intellectual disorders.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Cause found for rare amino acid disease

May 10, 2017

A young Saudi girl’s metabolic disorder can be explained by a newly discovered gene mutation.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

The Saudi approach to curing childhood leukaemia

April 25, 2017

The survival rate for paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia in Saudi Arabia is nowequal to that of developed nations thanks to a risk–response strategy.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Potential for a MERS antibody therapy

April 11, 2017

Patients with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome may produce sufficient antibodies to help fight the viral infection in more recentvictims.

International Research Highlight

Beta cell boost could replace insulin injections

February 28, 2017

A strategy for deriving beta cells from patients with type I diabetes could transform disease treatment.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Mixed messages on wider effects of vaccines

February 26, 2017

Vaccines against tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and measles may have effects on other aspects of health.

International Research Highlight

Concerns raised about digoxin safety

January 15, 2017

A drug commonly used to treat heart failure could be associated with an increased risk of death in certain patient groups.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Strategy urged to tackle genetic disease

January 14, 2017

A high rate of inherited metabolic disorders in Saudi Arabia is prompting calls for action.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Smart nanoparticles for cancer drug delivery

January 10, 2017

Magneto-fluorescent nanoparticles successfully deliver anti-cancer drug to breast cancer cells.

International Research Highlight

Radiolabeled peptides could monitor diabetes progression

January 9, 2017

Radioactive peptides effectively image insulin-producing cells, with potential to chart disease progression in diabetes.

International Research Highlight

Powerful tool invented to probe entire human proteome

January 4, 2017

The technology could give the search for new drugs, especially for cancer and terminal diseases, a significant boost.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

An anti-cancer molecule with a back-up plan

January 4, 2017

Anti-cancer agent kills cells in two different ways, offering an effective avenue for treatment.

International Research Highlight

Targeting cancer through the skin

January 1, 2017

More medicines could soon be delivered through the skin by cargo-carrying peptides.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Balancing CT dose and image quality

December 25, 2016

New techniques to improve image quality in CT scans while reducing radiation dose may compromise quality at certain thresholds, potentially resulting in misdiagnosis.

International Research Highlight

Chinese herbal remedies yield anti-cancer drug leads

December 20, 2016

A shortlist of Chinese medicinal plants containing the most anti-cancer compounds could yield new drugs for patients.

International Research Highlight

Hepatitis B: Predict, treat, avoid

December 16, 2016

A biomarker has been found that can help predict the reactivation of the hepatitis B virus in immunosuppressed patients.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Preventing flu in kidney transplant patients

December 16, 2016

A flu shot may also benefit transplant patients under age 65.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Gene ties autism and kidney issues

December 15, 2016

Mutations in the “teashirt” gene cause both an autism syndrome and kidney problems in children.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Light-responsive shape-changing molecules

December 13, 2016

Nanowires that undergo reversible shape-changes in response to light could act as artificial tails to steer drugs around the body.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A new player in gene regulation

December 10, 2016

The molecular mechanism controlling gene expression is found to involve a familiar molecule.

International Research Highlight

Go Mediterranean for cancer protection

December 10, 2016

A Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of colorectal cancer by half in Italy.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Shedding new light on cancer cell death

December 9, 2016

Insight into the antibody-driven death of lymphoma cells may lead to anti-cancer treatments with enhanced efficacy and selectivity.

International Research Highlight

Scrutinizing cellular bonds in heart failure patients

December 6, 2016

Atomic force microscopy can help scientists identify which chronic heart failure patients are more likely to suffer complications.

International Research Highlight

Shedding light on tumours

December 6, 2016

A contrast agent, containing nanoparticles that are sensitive to acidity, lights up solid tumours on magnetic resonance imaging scans.

International Research Highlight

Honing in on thyroid cancer

December 3, 2016

A closer look at gene expression in papillary thyroid cancer opens new opportunities for its detection.

International Research Highlight

‘Young blood’ a defence against infection

December 2, 2016

Signatures of a more potent and durable immune response may explain why children fend off chronic hepatitis C infection better than adults.

International Research Highlight

Reaching for success is easier for the tall

November 30, 2016

A broad survey of British men and women suggests hereditary differences in height and weight affect prospects for socioeconomic positioning.

International Research Highlight

The genetics of smoking behaviour and lung disease

November 29, 2016

Samples reveal specific genetic signals that determine a person’s risk for tobacco addiction and lung damage from smoking.

International Research Highlight

Obesity surgery can also resolve diabetes

November 22, 2016

Large-scale study shows bariatric surgery helps keep weight down and can resolve diabetes and hypertension.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Exploring diabetes impact on teenagers and their families

November 22, 2016

A multidisciplinary approach to treating teenage diabetics is needed to improve quality of life for patients and their families.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

An attractive and abundant stem cell alternative

November 20, 2016

Stem cells derived from the maternal side of the human placenta may find unique therapeutic applications given their special properties.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Gene defects reduce leukaemia survival

November 14, 2016

Genetic variations can explain poorer survival rates in Pakistani children from a prevalent type of leukaemia.

International Research Highlight

How hepatitis C takes control

November 2, 2016

The hepatitis virus commandeers key cellular machinery to keep itself safe.

International Research Highlight

Making room for regeneration

November 1, 2016

Drugs that prevent the accumulation of scar-forming molecules could facilitate nerve repair in multiple sclerosis and other disorders.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Safeguarding diabetes patients in Ramadan

August 20, 2016

Millions of Muslims with diabetes are at risk if they fast during Ramadan without guidance.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Peptide promise for diagnostics

August 17, 2016

Rapid diagnosis of HIV may soon be possible thanks to a novel peptide-based diagnostic tool.

International Research Highlight

Hepatitis B poses lifetime cancer risk

August 14, 2016

Clearance of active hepatitis B virus from the blood does not reduce the risk of liver cancer.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Oral cancer in the Arab World

August 14, 2016

Qat and tobacco chewing have been linked to a higher incidence of oral cancer in Yemen, Sudan and southern Saudi Arabia than in other Arab countries.

International Research Highlight

Unmaking a muscle

August 14, 2016

The ‘missing links’ in a process that drives muscle wasting in heart failure patients may offer promising drug targets.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Recipes for better drug delivery

August 14, 2016

Fine-tuned nanocarriers loaded with natural products may improve targeted drug delivery and enhance anti-cancer activity

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Fanconi anaemia may be under-diagnosed in Saudi Arabia

August 14, 2016

Genetic analysis of Saudi patients with Fanconi anaemia reveals new mutations and distinct patterns of mutation that may affect diagnosis.

International Research Highlight

First MERS autopsy yields ‘critical insights’

August 14, 2016

The world’s first autopsy of a patient with Middle East respiratory syndrome shows that the lungs are the infection’s main target.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

New anticancer molecule promises improved therapy

August 14, 2016

Chemotherapy without side effects, or the risk of relapse, could soon be possible.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Genetic variants alter breast cancer risk

August 14, 2016

Genetic variants of the DNA repair protein RAD51 are associated with differential risks of breast cancer in Saudi women.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Autistic children could receive tailored treatment

August 14, 2016

A new method of identifying autism means the hope of earlier treatment for children.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A biomarker for colorectal cancer

August 14, 2016

A mutated tumour suppressor gene could provide a useful marker for the diagnosis and prognosis of bowel cancer.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

New chemotherapy promising for breast cancer

August 14, 2016

A trial for a new chemotherapy treatment has shown promising results for locally advanced breast cancer.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Gene tweak induces stronger immunity

August 14, 2016

Changing the switch that turns on vaccine protein production elicits a stronger immune response against malaria and influenza in mice.

International Research Highlight

New probe shines light inside arteries

August 14, 2016

A new design of catheter probe reveals complete, detailed pictures of fat deposits inside arteries for the first time.

International Research Highlight

Silkworms’ sweet success

August 14, 2016

Silkworms could point toward a new preventative therapy for type II diabetes.

International Research Highlight

The metabolomics revolution

August 14, 2016

Understanding the body’s metabolic profile is transforming drug discovery and personalized medicine.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Strictly confidential

August 14, 2016

Protecting confidentiality is a major priority in medical settings, crucial to the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia's newly established biobank.

International Research Highlight

The hunt for dementia’s molecular triggers

August 14, 2016

Gender differences provide molecular clues for scientists seeking better ways to treat dementia.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Understanding risks of consanguineous reproduction

August 14, 2016

Saudi Arabia needs a widespread education program highlighting the genetic risks to children born as a result of marriage within families.

International Research Highlight

A protective coat for nanoparticles

August 14, 2016

Nanoparticles coated in a ‘don’t-eat-me’ protein can evade the body’s immune system, improving chances of successful drug delivery.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Donating blood might improve diabetes

August 14, 2016

Recent research suggests giving blood may temporarily improve insulin production and glucose tolerance.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

A safer route to a cure

August 14, 2016

Clinical data suggests many adolescent Hodgkin lymphoma patients can achieve full recovery with a less toxic course of therapy.

International Research Highlight

Promising protein target

August 11, 2016

A structural analysis of proteins in the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome virus reveals a promising new target for treatments.

International Research Highlight

How hepatitis C takes control

August 11, 2016

The hepatitis virus commandeers key cellular machinery to keep itself safe.

International Research Highlight

Drug study shines new light on receptors

August 11, 2016

Identifying the binding site of an antagonist is expected to transform the treatment of diabetes and other metabolic diseases.

International Research Highlight

Making room for regeneration

August 11, 2016

Drugs that prevent the accumulation of scar-forming molecules could facilitate nerve repair in multiple sclerosis and other disorders.

International Research Highlight

Latest technique delivers CRISPR gene screens

August 11, 2016

A comparison of gene editing techniques reveals benefits of latest technology over conventional approach.

International Research Highlight

Drug-carrying nanoparticles not reaching targets

August 11, 2016

The targeted delivery of drug-carrying nanoparticles to solid tumours needs improvement before it can be effective in humans.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Manipulating metals for medicine

August 11, 2016

A simple and robust synthetic method could help magnetic metal oxide nanoparticles reach their potential as a powerful clinical tool.

International Research Highlight

Tracking the effects of therapeutic genes

August 11, 2016

Targeted nanoparticles offer hope of better methods for tracking the effects of gene therapy.

International Research Highlight

The truth about fatty acids

August 11, 2016

A Dutch cohort study shows that saturated fatty acids might not be as bad as people think.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Early fitness improves heart attack survival

August 10, 2016

Keeping fit early on can increase chances of survival from a heart attack later in life

International Research Highlight

Reversing immune decline

August 10, 2016

Targeting a certain gene could help promote healthy aging.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

More may not be better for the critically ill

August 10, 2016

Critically ill adults may do as well or better on fewer calories.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

How long do we treat the critically ill?

August 10, 2016

Researchers are developing objective measures to determine whether critically ill cancer patients can benefit from intensive care.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Molecular tool detects early-stage breast cancer

August 10, 2016

A cheap, simple test shows potential for reducing uncertainty in the diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer.

KAIMRC Research Highlight

Eliminating risk factors of heart attack

July 8, 2016

Sex has no effect on increasing the risk of a major heart attack for patients with extensive coronary artery disease.

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