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Proteins play an essential role in biological processes. Strengthening knowledge of proteins enables scientists to understand the causes of diseases and discover new treatments. “The protein molecules in our cells have different functions in keeping us alive, and in many cases, it’s dysfunction in proteins that leads to diseases,” says Saif Alqassim, assistant professor of biochemistry at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

“The knowledge of the three-dimensional structure of protein molecules is important,” says Alqassim. “When you want to design a drug, you can look at molecular details of how that drug binds to your protein target and use that information to optimise, improve and modify treatments.”

Alqassim joined MBRU after receiving doctoral and postdoctoral training at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Pennsylvania in the US. He pioneers research in the field of protein biochemistry and structural biology in the UAE, through the new Center for Protein Engineering at MBRU. Alqassim’s goal is to build a team of scientists that can support the advancement and implementation of protein-based therapeutics in the region. 

There have been several breakthroughs in protein-based therapeutics in recent years, says Alqassim. In 2024, the Nobel Prize for Chemistry was awarded to teams of researchers who used AI technology to revolutionise protein structure prediction and design, enabling scientists to create new therapeutic proteins.  

It is now possible to create novel protein sequences designed for specific functions or to bind specific targets, says Alqassim. Advancements in AI and machine learning make it easier for research teams to identify drugs that are effective and non-toxic by analysing medicinal chemistry and experimental data.

MBRU, which is part of Dubai Health, has provided generous support in developing the Center for Protein Engineering. In some of the centre’s innovative projects, researchers are looking to develop a new method of antibody discovery and engineer new therapeutic molecules with antibody-like properties. “Any method, tool or molecule developed that improves the current state of therapeutics is considered a major contribution to the field,” says Alqassim.

Recognising the importance of a collaborative ecosystem for learning and developing skills, Alqassim plans to bring together specialists, experienced professionals, talented students and postdoctoral trainees at the centre. For example, Alqassim collaborates with Mahmoud Nasr, who is a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in the US and adjunct faculty at MBRU, on joint research projects, the centre’s strategic planning and mentorship for PhD students. 

“As a centre that’s part of an academic institution, we have an education and training mission,” says Alqassim. Pursuing training in this field unlocks a wide range of professional opportunities for students, in higher education and industry, says Alqassim. “The skills in this field are relevant and useful for working in biotechnology, structural biology, protein engineering and the pharmaceutical industry.” The centre would also explore avenues for licensing and commercialisation if there are discoveries with better therapeutic efficacy compared with existing market options, creating opportunities for team members to establish spin-out ventures.

about Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences.