Biorus’ pioneering approach to precision medicine in the UAE

Launching in the midst of a pandemic is no easy feat, but for Biorus, it was a determination to not neglect other areas in healthcare – such as precision medicine – that propelled its mission.

In its short time in the United Arab Emirates, Biorus has fast established itself as a pioneering company at the forefront of precision medicine, dedicated to revolutionising the field through innovative approaches and cutting-edge technologies. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Biorus mission is to deliver personalised and targeted treatment solutions in genomics, molecular diagnostics, and bioinformatics to enable healthcare professionals to tailor medical interventions to each individual patient’s unique genetic makeup and specific disease characteristics.

Ahead of exhibiting at PMES 23, we met Ahmad Shweiki, general manager for Biorus, to discuss what’s coming up for the company. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Shweiki – who works out of Biorus’ headquarters in Dubai – plays a pivotal role in leading the company’s strategic direction and driving its growth and success in the precision medicine sector. Here’s what he had to say.

By Karim Mansour at Digital Ink Media

Can you give us an overview of Biorus as a company and its role in helping shape precision medicine?

There are two main aspects: diagnostics and life science research. In the field of diagnostics, precision medicine plays a crucial role in identifying and diagnosing diseases with accuracy. In the realm of life science research, precision medicine contributes to drug discovery and development. At Biorus, we provide comprehensive solutions in both research and diagnostics, making us a leader in the field of precision medicine. It’s important to note that precision medicine is not just a concept for the future; it is already a reality today. While advancements and innovations will continue to shape the field in the future, precision medicine is actively happening and making a difference in healthcare today.

You are showcasing Biorus’ portfolio at PMES '23. Tell us a little more about what visitors can expect.

The one I would particularly like to highlight is that of next-generation sequencing (NGS). In terms of diagnostics, we pride ourselves on having one of the widest selections available in the Middle East, and potentially even in Europe. Our precision medicine and diagnostic solutions set us apart from other companies, as we provide tests specifically designed for diagnostic use, not just for research purposes.

For individuals with cancer, for example, our testing services allow for the identification of mutations, supporting precision medicine as a licensed diagnostic approach. This is an essential aspect of our capabilities. Additionally, in the field of life science, we offer innovative solutions and streamlined workflows for drug discovery in precision medicine. These advancements contribute to the overall development of precision medicine, enabling researchers and healthcare professionals to make significant strides in improving patient outcomes.

So, who are your ideal clients or partners?

Our primary client segments consist of professionals working in diagnostic labs within hospitals and reference labs, as well as researchers and universities. These two groups form the core of our targeted clientele.

What does precision medicine mean to you personally?

Both personally and as a company, Biorus is committed to making valuable contributions to the UAE community. Living and operating in the UAE, we believe there is a significant need for greater awareness and attention to precision medicine. This field has made remarkable advancements, and our aim is to further promote, develop, and implement precision medicine in the local market.

Our objective is to bring the necessary focus and resources to elevate precision medicine to a new level in the UAE. We believe it is crucial to collaborate with key opinion leaders (KOLs), not only in the UAE but also across the region. This allows us to engage with leading solution providers and experts from around the world, enabling us to stay at the forefront of precision medicine.

By fostering these collaborations and partnerships, we strive to advance precision medicine and its benefits to the healthcare ecosystem in the UAE and beyond. We are dedicated to playing an active role in shaping the future of precision medicine by bringing together top experts, innovative technologies, and strategic solutions for improved patient outcomes.

And what’s next for Biorus?

Our approach is centred around being a true partner to our clients, rather than simply being a product provider. We are committed to offering customised and tailored solutions that address their specific needs, whether it’s solving current challenges or supporting their future objectives. Our aim is to enhance patient care and drive advancements in research.

As part of our commitment, we actively engage in collaborations, including providing machines to universities for research purposes without any charges. Our focus is not solely on financial gains, as there are other lucrative business opportunities available in Dubai. Instead, our objective is to contribute to the success of our clients and institutions, aligning ourselves with their goals and ultimately improving patient care. We aspire to be a valuable contributor to the healthcare sector in both the country and the region.?

Interested to know more?

To learn about how stakeholders are redefining healthcare in the GCC and MENA region, read the full 'PrecisionMed International' magazine online here