The KAUST Pathogen Genomics Laboratory (PGL), led by Professor Arnab Pain, is using DNA and RNA sequencing to study the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The lab is part of KAUST's Rapid Research Response Team (R3T), supporting Saudi healthcare stakeholders in combating COVID-19. Pain and his Ph.D. student Sharif Hala are partnering with the Saudi-CDC and Ministry of Health hospitals to sequence Saudi SARS-CoV-2 samples. Why it matters: This effort provides crucial data for understanding and monitoring the virus's spread and evolution within the Kingdom, informing public health strategies.
A KAUST-led team developed NIRVANA, a portable, briefcase-sized device for rapid detection and sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and other viruses. The test utilizes isothermal recombinase amplification (RPA) and was validated on clinical samples and wastewater. NIRVANA can differentiate SARS-CoV-2 strains and doesn't require expensive infrastructure. Why it matters: This innovation enables rapid, decentralized virus detection and surveillance, crucial for pandemic response and monitoring new variants across the region.
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 developed a new model integrating SIR compartment modeling in time and a point process modeling approach in space-time, also considering age-specific contact patterns. They used a two-step framework to model infectious locations over time for different age groups. The model demonstrated improved predictive accuracy in simulations and a COVID-19 case study in Cali, Colombia, compared to existing models. Why it matters: This model can assist decision-makers in identifying high-risk locations and vulnerable populations for better disease control strategies in the region and globally.
KAUST's Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) have collaborated on research into methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) within Saudi Arabia, starting in July 2018. The two-year project aims to understand MRSA drug resistance mechanisms specific to the Kingdom and its regions, with the goal of developing public health strategies. The project involves sequencing samples and performing bioinformatics analysis to support a network of researchers in the country. Why it matters: This initiative enhances Saudi Arabia's capacity to predict, prevent, and control infectious diseases, aligning with national health objectives and building local expertise in computational bioscience.
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 researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas system using a heat-stable Cas13 protein (TccCas13a) from Thermoclostridium caenicola, compatible with RT-LAMP for rapid viral detection. The new assay, named OPTIMA-dx, enhances the specificity of RT-LAMP tests by reducing false positives in SARS-CoV-2 detection. The team, led by Dr. Magdy Mahfouz and doctoral student Ahmed Mahas, is transitioning the product to a startup phase for commercialization. Why it matters: This innovation could significantly improve point-of-care diagnostics for COVID-19 and other infections by providing a more accurate and easier-to-use testing method.
A KAUST scientist led a global call for climate solutions, published simultaneously by 14 academic journals and released at COP29. The publication, prepared by 18 scientists, urges international governments to deploy microbial 'vaccines' against climate change. Six simple 'vaccine' examples are outlined, including carbon sequestration boosters and methane busters. Why it matters: This coordinated effort highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and KAUST's leading role in microbial solutions.