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.
The Saudi Vaccine and Biomanufacturing Center (SVBC), the first of its kind in the Middle East, broke ground at KAUST on December 15. The center will develop vaccines and biopharmaceutical products under good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards. It is a joint project championed by the Ministry of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources through the Industrial Clusters Program and supported by KACST. Why it matters: The center will serve as a national platform for pharmaceutical innovation and address epidemic risks in the Kingdom, such as MERS-CoV.
KAUST Professor Raquel Peixoto will co-lead the first global body under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to safeguard microbial biodiversity. The Microbial Conservation Specialist Group will explore ecological disruption and potential extinction of microbes vital to ecosystems and human health. The group will assess extinction risks, set conservation priorities, and establish criteria for a microorganism Red List. Why it matters: This initiative highlights the growing recognition of the importance of microbial ecosystems and positions KAUST as a leader in integrating microbiology into global biodiversity governance.
KAUST researchers have discovered that combining ultraviolet sunlight with phages increases the susceptibility of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to sunlight disinfection. This breakthrough addresses the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, as the rate of discovering new antibiotics has slowed. The team demonstrated this method's effectiveness against a pathogenic E. coli strain found in Saudi wastewater. Why it matters: This research offers a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics, particularly relevant in regions like Singapore and the GCC where treated wastewater is a crucial water supply source.
The Research Products Development Company (RPDC) signed an agreement with The Saudi Vaccine and Biomanufacturing Center (SVBC) to establish a research and industrial center in Saudi Arabia for vaccine and biopharmaceutical development. Supported by KACST and hosted by KAUST, the SVBC will provide a state-of-the-art facility and a training platform. Cooperation agreements were also signed with GE for equipment supply and with Fujifilm Dayosent Biotechnology for MERS-CoV treatment development. Why it matters: This initiative aims to localize vaccine and advanced treatment industries in Saudi Arabia, create technical jobs, and reduce reliance on imports in line with Vision 2030.
Researchers at KAUST and international collaborators have published a framework in Nature Microbiology for using microbiomes to protect wildlife. The framework outlines a path from laboratory research to large-scale applications of microbiome solutions for threatened ecosystems. It addresses ethical considerations and risk assessment for applying environmental probiotics. Why it matters: This framework provides a science-based guide for responsible research and development of microbiome solutions to combat global biodiversity loss, particularly in sensitive marine ecosystems like coral reefs.
SaudiVax, located in the KAUST Research & Technology Park, is collaborating with the University of Pittsburgh and Merck France to develop a COVID-19 antibody injection. The antibody both protects against potential infection and neutralizes the virus in those already infected. SaudiVax is utilizing KAUST expertise and has contracted with Merck France for manufacturing since suitable facilities are not yet available in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This partnership highlights the growing biopharmaceutical capabilities in Saudi Arabia and the potential for KAUST to serve as a hub for medical innovation in the region.
KAUST Research Scientist Dr. Ram Karan received a Young Scientist Award at the 15th International Congress on Thermophiles in Japan for his work on extremozymes from Red Sea brine pools. His research focuses on identifying, purifying, and bioengineering microbial proteins from these pools. He utilizes single-amplified genomes (SAGs) to produce extremozyme proteins without needing to grow cells in the lab. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's innovative research into extremophiles, which have the potential to develop novel, sustainable biotechnical processes for industrial applications.