Initiative encourages researchers within the region to tap into the vast possibilities of proteomics research

• Promotes the utilization of the cutting-edge SomaScan® Assay as a crucial tool for generating high-quality proteomic data in the GCC region to benefit people, not just patients

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: M42, a global tech-enabled health powerhouse, has partnered with the US-based biotechnology company SomaLogic to launch a proteomics grant competition, a first in the region, aimed at inspiring researchers to harness the vast potential of proteomics research.

Proteomics, the study of proteomes, the complete set of proteins produced in an organism, plays a pivotal role in understanding health, treatment efficacy and potential risks. M42’s commitment to advancing proteomics is evident through its collaboration with SomaLogic, who are revolutionizing life sciences and healthcare by understanding the human proteome. Leveraging its cutting-edge SomaScan® Assay.

The SomaScan Assay is a groundbreaking platform capable of 11,000 protein measurements from just a 55-µL sample, surpassing all other platforms in both protein coverage and the exploration of diverse biological pathways, offering unprecedented opportunities for scientific discovery.

The competition encourages GCC researchers to complement genomics research with proteomics as proteins offer insights into wellness, aging, medication responses and health complications. Such innovative research can help develop protein signatures that will benefit people, not just patients, including predictive tests for cardiovascular risk up to four years in advance, leading to personalized treatments and reduced long-term healthcare costs.

Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of M42, said: “As a global organization powered by innovation, we are excited to announce the launch of our Proteomics grant competition for the first time and are looking forward to receiving original and inspiring competition entries from research institutions across the GCC. M42 focuses on prevention over cure and this competition aligns with our goals of bringing personalized and preventive healthcare into the region.”

The SomaScan Assay, an industry-leading high-plex proteomic platform, enables identification of novel proteomic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for drug development. While genomics research has identified genetic variants associated with disease risk, understanding the role of proteins is equally crucial, as proteins are the essential functional molecules of the human body and the targets for over 90 percent of approved therapeutics.

Located within the Omics Center of Excellence, the M42 SomaLogic Proteomic Laboratory is the UAE’s only authorized facility to run the SomaScan Assay.

Any research institution in the GCC is eligible to participate. Applicants should submit a concise proposal of 500 words or less outlining a pilot research project utilizing the SomaScan Assay. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee of experts and one outstanding research proposal will be selected for the grant award. The award covers the delivery of data for 40 samples worth USD 15,000 from the SomaScan assay for the analysis of human serum or plasma.

Proposals will be evaluated based on originality, clear goals, scientifically appropriate approach, the intended use of protein data and the impact on health and disease in their focus area.

Researchers can submit proposals from January 29, 2024, until March 2, 2024, with results announced on March 15, 2024. For more information, interested entities can reach out to [email protected].

About M42

M42 is a first-of-its-kind global tech-enabled health powerhouse committed to the sustainable future of health. The Abu Dhabi-headquartered company is transforming lives through innovative clinical solutions that are solving the world’s most critical health and diagnostic challenges. By harnessing innovative solutions and unique medical and data-centric technologies, including genomics and AI, M42 is delivering the highest level of personalized, precise, and preventative care to impactfully disrupt the global healthcare ecosystem.

M42 has over 20,000 employees and more than 450 facilities in 26 countries. Established in 2022, following the coming together of G42 Healthcare and Mubadala Health, M42 combines unique medical and data-centric technologies with state-of-the-art facilities to deliver world-class care.

M42 owns and manages an integrated portfolio of health-tech and healthcare service providers including Diaverum, G42 Healthcare, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, among others.