Artificial intelligence specialists in Abu Dhabi devise a tool for swiftly identifying Multiple Sclerosis cases
In a groundbreaking collaboration, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Yas Clinic - Khalifa City, and the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) are joining forces to advance the fight against multiple sclerosis (MS) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The partnership, which has been in the works for the past two years, is focused on validating advanced MRI methods to improve the speed and accuracy of MS diagnoses. One of the key tools developed as part of this collaboration is FLAIRstar, a computational MRI module that identifies the central vein sign (CVS) with high precision. This biomarker, recognized under the international McDonald 2024 criteria, enables physicians to confirm MS diagnoses more confidently.
Dr. Lev Brylev, Consultant Neurologist at Yas Clinic, stated that the collaboration with NYUAD is combining clinical expertise with state-of-the-art MRI methods to bring transformative solutions for MS care. The tool offered to neurologists by the partnership is intended to distinguish MS from other neurological disorders that mimic its symptoms, potentially reducing diagnostic uncertainty, prolonged monitoring, repeat scans, and invasive testing.
The LAMINATE project and Yas Clinic's PHOMS trial are integral parts of this partnership, where NYUAD's MRI analysis is helping track brain changes to evaluate new MS treatments, including Extracorporeal Photopheresis (ECP). The partnership's initiatives bring research from NYUAD's Center for Brain and Health (CBH) into clinical practice, shortening the time to treatment for MS patients.
Prof. Osama Abdullah, MRI Physicist at NYUAD's Center for Brain and Health, mentioned that the partnership is a perfect example of the 'bench-to-bedside' journey, where research discoveries are validated and applied in real-world settings, creating a powerful ecosystem for healthcare innovation in Abu Dhabi.
This collaboration reflects the UAE's growing role as a hub for medical innovation, where advanced research and clinical expertise converge to tackle complex neurological conditions and improve patient outcomes. The partnership is a significant step forward in the battle against MS, promising faster, more accurate diagnoses and potentially transforming the way MS is treated in Abu Dhabi.
