In a major step toward its mission to transform Qatar's healthcare, the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has inked a collaboration agreement with the Qatar Genome Program (QGP).

This newly-forged partnership facilitates genome sequencing of Qataris with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their healthy family members.

Members from QBRI and QGP outlined the full extent of both organizations' co-operation at a special event organized recently to mark the signing of the agreement.

The agreement will see a whole genome sequencing initiative for a large number of samples that are being collected as part of QBRI's autism research program.

The sequencing will be done for two years with samples obtained from individuals with ASD and their families.

Qatar Genome signs a collaboration agreement with Qatar Biomedical Research Institute in @HBKU A unique research project on whole genome sequencing of Qataris with Autism Spectrum Disorder and apparently healthy family members. Efforts towards Precision Medicine applications pic.twitter.com/NzogJVo1ra

— QatarGenomeProgramme (@QatarGenome) October 22, 2019

It is expected that these samples will directly inform QBRI's investigations of the genetic and genomic background of ASD.

Executive Director of Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Dr Omar El Agnaf, said, "The Qatar Genome Program is recognized nationally as an enabler of research that aims to implement precision medicine through the generation of large scale genomic and other multi omics data from the Qatari population. As such, we are natural partners in the effort to better understand Autism Spectrum Disorder."

"Identifying the causative mutations of ASD will feed into other related areas of research, enabling early diagnosis, putative biomarkers and a greater understanding of the mechanisms leading to such conditions," he added.

Commenting on the signing of the agreement, Dr Asma Al Thani, Chairperson of the National Genome Committee, said, "As scientists, we are forever motivated by the pursuit of knowledge, and genomics brings us a wealth of data that we can use in all different streams of healthcare research."

Dr Al Thani acknowledged QBRI as a center in Qatar "that dedicates so much effort to joining with local and international endeavors for finding solutions for people with autism," saying QGP is delighted to support its research towards precision medicine.

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Cover Image Credit: Qatar Tribune 

Source: QNA