Overview
The Center for Applied and Translational Genomics (CATG) brings together multidisciplinary teams and diverse fields of OMICs to accelerate discovery and support better outcomes for patients. Through collaborative expertise and cutting-edge technologies, CATG strengthens the connection between scientific research and clinical practice, contributing to the development of precision medicine.
Research & Collaborations:
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Arab Reference Genome Project: Arab and Middle Eastern populations remain vastly underrepresented in genetic studies, and current human reference genomes lack regional ancestry, limiting the clinical relevance of genomic data in the UAE. Research projects at CATG include de novo construction of Arab reference genome and multi-OMICs mapping, addressing this critical gap in global genomics.
This study aims to combine long-read sequencing with transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data to build a comprehensive genomic resource tailored to the Arab population. This initiative lays the foundation for equitable precision medicine in the UAE and Middle Eastern regions, enabling better diagnostics, targeted therapies, and informed health policy.
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Cancer Research: CATG is actively engaged in cutting-edge cancer research through a large-scale, collaborative pan-cancer study aimed at uncovering the genetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic underpinnings of various cancer types. By integrating long-read and short-read genome sequencing with multi-OMICs approaches, including transcriptomics and proteomics, the study seeks to identify novel genetic variants, expression patterns, and protein modifications associated with cancer. Utilizing a robust cohort of cancer samples including blood, tissue, and liquid biopsy specimens, CATG’s research aims to reveal shared pathways, genotype-phenotype correlations, and the interplay of genetic, environmental, and molecular factors. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the development of targeted diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies for the UAE population, driving innovation in cancer precision medicine and improving patient outcomes through deep scientific collaboration.
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Rare Disease Research: CATG is leading a groundbreaking research initiative focused on uncovering the genetic causes of rare and complex diseases through the use of advanced whole genome sequencing (WGS) technologies. The study will analyze a sample cohort of individuals with confirmed or suspected genetic disorders using long-read WGS (PacBio) to capture structural variants and complex genomic regions often missed by traditional methods. By integrating genomic data with detailed clinical and phenotypic information, the project aims to identify population-specific pathogenic variants and better understand disease mechanisms. The research also emphasizes the development of robust bioinformatics pipelines, data integration strategies, and wide dissemination of findings to enhance diagnosis, treatment, and awareness of rare diseases in the UAE and beyond.
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Artificial Intelligence: By combining AI-driven analytics with genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and other omics data, CATG aims to uncover complex biological patterns and enhance precision in disease prediction, diagnosis, and treatment. The center welcomes partnerships with academic institutions, healthcare organizations, and industry leaders to drive innovation at the intersection of AI and biomedical research, accelerating the discovery of novel insights and solutions for complex health challenges.
Genomics
Long-read whole genome sequencing
Long-read whole genome sequencing is an advanced genomic technology that enables the sequencing of large DNA fragments (typically >10 kb) in a single read. It provides accuracy in detecting structural variations, resolving complex genomic regions, and phasing haplotypes. Long-read whole genome sequencing is instrumental in identifying complex genetic variations, such as structural variants and repeat expansions, which are often implicated in diseases like cancer and neurological disorders. Additionally, it enhances the accuracy of genome assemblies, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of genetic information.
CATG utilizes PacBio HiFi sequencing and Oxford Nanopore for long-read whole genome sequencing.
Short-read whole genome sequencing
Short-read whole genome sequencing is a widely used genomic technology that sequences DNA in small fragments (typically 100-300 bp) with high accuracy and throughput. Short-read whole genome sequencing is widely used in clinical diagnostics to detect single nucleotide variants, insertions/deletions, and copy number changes, aiding in the identification of genetic disorders and informing personalized treatment plans. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in pathogen surveillance by identifying bacterial species and antimicrobial resistance genes, which is essential for managing infectious diseases and tracking outbreaks.
CATG utilizes Illumina’s NextSeq 2000 sequencing platform to provide cost-effective and scalable genome analysis, making it ideal for a range of research and clinical applications.
Whole exome sequencing
Whole exome sequencing (WES) on NextSeq 2000 Illumina sequencing platform is a targeted genomic approach that sequences only the protein-coding regions (exons) of the genome, which make up about 1-2% of the genome but contain ~85% of known disease-related variants. By focusing on these regions, WES provides a cost-effective and efficient method for identifying genetic mutations linked to disease.
Transcriptomics
Bulk transcriptomics
CATG offers bulk transcriptomics services by long-read sequencing platforms—PacBio Revio and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT). These platforms enable in-depth, full-length transcriptome profiling from complex samples, providing an unparalleled view of isoform diversity, alternative splicing, gene fusions, and transcript-level expression.
Single-cell transcriptomics
10x Genomics single-cell technology at CATG enables high-throughput analysis of individual cells, providing deep insights into cellular heterogeneity, gene expression, and immune responses. Using the microfluidics-based Chromium X controller platform, it partitions thousands to millions of cells, capturing their molecular profiles with high precision.
Single-cell sequencing can be carried out with PacBio Revio, Oxford-nanopore and Illumina platforms.
Liquid-Chromatography Mass Spectrometry based Proteomics
Liquid-Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) based Proteomics enables both the deep analysis of thousands of proteins in a sample and the targeted analysis of a select few. Our Proteomics Service utilizes the cutting-edge Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer, a high-resolution, accurate-mass (HRAM) instrument suitable for the identification, and quantification of intact proteins (top-down workflows), peptides (bottom-up) and post-translational modifications. This service enables researchers to identify differentially abundant proteins between samples, as well as identify unknown proteins such as interactors in immuno-pulldowns (IP-MS). It is often used in understanding drug and disease mechanisms as well as identifying biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic applications.
Liquid-Chromatography Mass Spectrometry based Metabolomics
LC-MS based metabolomics using the Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer enables comprehensive profiling of the small molecules in complex biological samples, including lipids, amino acids and those intermediates involved in various metabolic pathways. This service is effective for a range of sample types including any aqueous medium such as media, cells, blood plasma and more. This service encompasses both targeted and untargeted (i.e. discovery) workflows. Discovery metabolomics enables researchers to identify and quantify a wide range of metabolites in biological samples without prior knowledge of their identities. While targeted metabolomics enables researchers to quantify specific metabolites and biomarkers with high precision, supporting studies on metabolism, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic responses.
The SomaScan® Proteomics
The SomaScan® Assay enables highly accurate and sensitive protein biomarker discovery and analysis, including in sample types where LC-MS proteomics is challenging (such as with plasma and CSF). Somalogic’s Somamer® technology —highly selective protein-binding molecules—enable researchers to measure the abundance of up to 11 thousand proteins per sample. This technology provides a comprehensive view of the proteome, allowing for the identification of novel biomarkers and deeper insights into disease mechanisms, drug development, and clinical diagnostics.
Bioinformatics and big data analysis
CATG offers comprehensive bioinformatics and big data analysis services, supported by a skilled team of bioinformaticians and data scientists. The team is equipped to handle long-read and short-read genome data, software programming, and custom pipeline development for diverse research needs. CATG further expands its expertise by developing state-of-the-art AI and machine learning models for healthcare applications, with a focus on deciphering the complexities of gene expression, cellular dynamics, and drug development.
Genetic Counselling
CATG has a licensed genetic counsellor available to provide expert support in interpreting genetic data. This service helps clients understand the clinical, medical, and personal implications of their genomic information, ensuring informed decision-making and personalized guidance.
Training and internship
CATG offers training and internship opportunities for students interested in gaining experience in genomics, bioinformatics, and multi-omics research. These programs are designed to familiarize students with practical skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and cutting-edge technologies, fostering the next generation of scientists and healthcare innovators.
Contact us
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