A new trial will test HT-4253 to prevent Alzheimer’s. The study will use genetic data from almost one million Emiratis identified as high‑risk by the Emirati Genome Programme.
Genomic data fuels preventive trial
The Emirati Genome Programme has already gathered DNA from more than 900,000 citizens. The Department of Health will send text messages to people thought to be eligible, inviting them to undergo screening before the drug is administered.
M42’s Insights Research Organisation and Solutions (IROS) division will lead the clinical work. David Kavanagh, interim general manager of IROS, said the effort reflects a decade of genomic investment in the UAE. "the trial reflected “a decade of genomic investment" in the UAE. “The Emirati Genome Programme was built to improve health outcomes, and today we are translating that data into real‑world clinical research,"
the trial reflected “a decade of genomic investment" in the UAE. “The Emirati Genome Programme was built to improve health outcomes, and today we are translating that data into real‑world clinical research,”
— David Kavanagh, Interim General Manager, IROS
New therapy targets early intervention
The drug, called HT-4253, works by inhibiting the LRRK2 gene. Researchers hope this will prevent inflammation of nerve cells and stop the build‑up of amyloid protein, a different approach from existing amyloid‑removing medicines.
Dr David Bearss, president and chief executive of Halia Therapeutics, explained the trial’s preventive focus. "We are not waiting for disease to appear. We are acting at the moment when intervention can matter most, and the Emirati Genome Programme gives us a population‑scale platform to do so,"
We are not waiting for disease to appear. We are acting at the moment when intervention can matter most, and the Emirati Genome Programme gives us a population‑scale platform to do so,
— David Bearss, President & CEO, Halia Therapeutics
About a quarter of the population carry a single copy of the APOE4 gene variant, which doubles the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Those with two copies, roughly two per cent of Emiratis, face an even higher likelihood. The World Health Organization projects that the global number of people with Alzheimer’s or dementia could reach 153 million by 2050.
Experts say the shift toward early‑stage, prevention‑focused trials adds needed diversity to Alzheimer’s research, which has largely centred on amyloid removal. The Abu Dhabi trial therefore represents a significant step toward testing alternative therapeutic pathways in a high‑risk population.
Frequently asked questions
How does HT-4253 prevent Alzheimer’s?
HT-4253 inhibits the LRRK2 gene, reducing nerve‑cell inflammation and amyloid protein buildup, which targets early‑stage prevention of Alzheimer’s.
Who is eligible for the Alzheimer’s prevention trial in Abu Dhabi?
Emiratis identified as high‑risk through the Emirati Genome Programme will be contacted by the Department of Health via text message for screening before enrollment.
What role does the Emirati Genome Programme play in this trial?
The programme supplies genetic data from nearly one million citizens, allowing researchers to pinpoint individuals with high Alzheimer’s risk for early intervention.
How is the HT-4253 trial different from other Alzheimer’s treatments?
Unlike amyloid‑removing drugs, HT-4253 focuses on prevention by targeting the LRRK2 gene and genetic risk factors before symptoms appear.
What is the APOE4 gene’s impact on Alzheimer’s risk?
Carrying one copy of the APOE4 variant roughly doubles Alzheimer’s risk, while two copies—found in about 2 % of Emiratis—significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
