M42, a global health technology company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health to collaborate on the Uzbek Genome Program, marking a step in expanding its genomics footprint and contributing to global genetic research diversity.
The agreement was formalized and coincided with an official visit by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the UAE at the invitation of UAE president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The signing ceremony took place in Abu Dhabi, attended by key officials, including Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Health Farhkodjon Tashpulatov, Deputy Minister of Investments Shokhrukh Gulamov, and Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at M42. The event was also witnessed by UAE Minister of Energy H.E. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade H.E. Laziz Kudratov.
The partnership focuses on advancing genomics research and healthcare innovation in Uzbekistan through:
- Establishing in-country genomic and omics capabilities to launch the Uzbek Genome Program.
- Developing scalable screening and diagnostic tools tailored to Uzbekistan’s genetic diversity.
- Implementing genetically inherited disease prevention programs, including pre-marital, newborn, and non-invasive prenatal testing.
- Supporting the research, development, and local manufacturing of novel screening and diagnostic solutions.
- Facilitating knowledge transfer, training, and workforce upskilling in genomics and precision medicine.
By leveraging its experience with the Emirati Genome Program, M42 aims to assist Uzbekistan in building a national genomic database, enabling early disease detection and personalized healthcare solutions.
Farhkodjon Tashpulatov, Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister of Health, highlighted the importance of the collaboration: "Genomic research provides a unique opportunity to understand the genetic characteristics of the Uzbek population, allowing for targeted early detection and prevention programs. This partnership strengthens our commitment to improving public health and reducing chronic disease burdens."
He further emphasized Uzbekistan’s ambition to become a leader in genomics within Central Asia through specialist training and technological integration.
Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group CEO at M42, stressed the broader impact of the initiative: "With a lack of diversity in genomic research, many populations remain underserved in global healthcare advancements. The Uzbek Genome Program will help bridge this gap, addressing genetic diseases, improving patient outcomes, and reducing long-term health burdens."
Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi emphasized that M42’s successful operation of one of the world’s largest genomics programs will help transition healthcare in Uzbekistan from a reactive to a preventive model, ultimately benefiting the health of the Uzbek population.
M42 has established itself as a leader in genomics, with its Omics Center of Excellence ranking as the world’s largest facility outside the U.S., capable of sequencing up to 400,000 genomes annually. This partnership aligns with its mission to enhance healthcare sustainability and equity worldwide.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)