A KAUST Rapid Research Response Team (R3T) is collaborating with healthcare stakeholders to combat COVID-19. Xin Gao and his Structural and Functional Bioinformatics (SFB) Group are developing an AI-based diagnosis pipeline from CT scans of COVID-19 patients. The AI pipeline aims to address the high false negative rates associated with nucleic acid detection. Why it matters: This research could improve COVID-19 diagnostics and potentially inform understanding of viral pathogenesis.
KAUST researchers are analyzing the SARS-CoV-2 genome to identify potential targets for treatment and vaccine development. They are using the KAUST Metagenome Analysis Platform (KMAP) and the university's supercomputer to compare and analyze genomic data. The research focuses on identifying key genes for detection and treatment of COVID-19. Why it matters: This research contributes to the global effort to combat the pandemic and highlights KAUST's capabilities in genomic data analysis and computational bioscience.
KAUST's Rapid Research Response Team (R3T), including Professor Samir Hamdan, is working to understand and counteract the spread of COVID-19. The team assembled a complete homemade, one-step RT-PCR test, comparable to commercial kits, with a patent-free manufacturing recipe. KAUST R3T is also researching faster, more accurate point-of-care tests, including a CRISPR-based molecular test. Why it matters: This research provides accessible testing solutions and contributes to more effective and rapid detection methods for combating viral spread in the region and globally.
KAUST is joining universities worldwide to expedite licensing for COVID-19 related technologies. KAUST researchers are focusing on developing rapid diagnostic platforms, genomic analyses, and tools to track the virus's spread, collaborating with Saudi healthcare stakeholders. By signing the AUTM COVID-19 Licensing Guidelines and adopting the COVID-19 Technology Development Framework, KAUST will offer royalty-free, time-limited, non-exclusive licenses during and after the pandemic. Why it matters: This initiative facilitates quicker development and broader access to essential technologies for combating COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
KAUST is increasing campus population due to repatriation flights and additional students coming to campus. There has been a noticeable uptick in new cases of COVID-19, with some presenting with symptoms. KAUST emphasizes the importance of wearing face coverings, observing physical distance, washing hands, avoiding groups of more than 10 people and restricting social networks. Why it matters: This update provides insight into the university's health and safety protocols, reflecting broader trends in managing public health within research institutions in the GCC.
KAUST reflects on its COVID-19 response, highlighting community efforts, research contributions, and partnerships. Faculty are leveraging expertise in diagnostics, AI therapeutics, genomics, and epidemiology. KAUST is collaborating with the Saudi CDC, Ministry of Health, and other institutions. Why it matters: This demonstrates KAUST's role as a hub for research and innovation, contributing to both national and global health challenges during a crisis.
This study investigates the correlation between Google Trends data for COVID-19 symptoms and the actual number of COVID-19 cases in Saudi Arabia between March and October 2020. The researchers found that searches for "cough" and "sore throat" were most frequent, while "loss of smell", "loss of taste", and "diarrhea" showed the highest correlation with confirmed cases. The study concludes that Google searches can serve as a supplementary surveillance tool for monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: The research demonstrates the potential of using readily available digital data to augment traditional surveillance methods for public health monitoring in the region.
KAUST's president addressed the community regarding the university's response to COVID-19 since January, detailing the formation of a Coronavirus Task Force and Crisis Management Team. The university has issued 25 announcements, and the Saudi government's response was lauded. KAUST is balancing community health protection and minimizing disruptions with no confirmed cases at KAUST. Why it matters: This address highlights the proactive measures taken by a leading Saudi institution to manage a global health crisis, reflecting the Kingdom's broader efforts and KAUST's commitment to its community's well-being.