4 UAE-backed firms developing potential Covid-19 treatment
abu dhabi — Four UAE-backed companies are currently developing a potential treatment for Covid-19, including a vaccine.
A top official has said the companies — VIR Biotechnology, Recursion Pharmaceuticals, Color Genomics and Innovaccer — are playing crucial role in the fight against the virus. These firms, based in the US, are part of the Mubadala Capital’s Ventures’ portfolio.
“We believe the combination of technology and biology will have a significant positive impact on healthcare challenges around the world,” said Ibrahim Ajami, head of ventures, Mubadala Capital.
VIR Biotechnology, a company with aim to end infectious diseases, is developing a vaccine against Covid-19 and clinical trials are expected by summer. Recursion Pharmaceuticals is using its artificial intelligence and robotics to screen thousands of compounds to determine efficacy against the virus, Ajami said.
Color Genomics, on the other hand, is building the largest testing facility in California with the capacity to test over 15,000 patients per day — while Innovaccer is working with 500 US hospitals and over 150,000 patients to triage and test against the virus.
“Intensity and urgency of this fight means everyone must play a role,” he added.
Zayed centre’s study
In London, the Zayed Centre for Research into Rare Disease in Children is also leading vital research in the fight against the pandemic.
“The centre brings together the expertise of clinicians and researchers to gain a clearer picture of how the virus is spreading and helping to mitigate the risk. The data will help to inform public health planning,” the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office said.
We believe the combination of technology and biology will have a significant positive impact on healthcare challenges around the world.” Ibrahim Ajami, head of ventures, Mubadala Capital