Abu Dhabi labs implant live cells from camel embryos for first time

Researchers in Abu Dhabi have made a scientific breakthrough by implanting live cells from camel embryos for the first time.

Cells from the kidney, liver and muscle tissue of embryos from a group of camels were successfully cultured in Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) laboratories.

This achievement supports the diagnosis of camel-related viral diseases and contributes to the production of proteins and vaccines.

It also allows further study of camel tissues and interactions with drugs, antivirals and other chemicals.

ADAFSA laboratories, represented by the Collaborating Centre for Camel Diseases, is accredited by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). 

It's a specialist centre for camel diseases, providing advanced diagnostic, research and training services in collaboration with leading international institutions in the field. 

In May 2022, WOAH officially accredited the Centre as its designated scientific arm for all matters related to camel diseases in the Middle East.

.@adafsa_gov laboratories have, for the first time, successfully cultured cells from muscle tissue and organs of camel embryos, supporting significant scientific developments in treating diseases, understanding viral infection mechanisms, and enhancing camel diagnostic methods. pic.twitter.com/BlYdFMEmIu

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 22, 2024

أسماء عبدي محمد، مدير إدارة شؤون الأمن الحيوي في هيئة أبوظبي للزراعة والسلامة الغذائية، تتحدث عن الإنجاز العلمي الذي حقَّقته الهيئة من خلال نجاحها في زراعة خلايا حيّة من أجنَّة الإبل، وتسلِّط الضوء على أهمية ذلك في تشخيص أمراض الإبل الفيروسية وتوفير علاجات فعّالة لها. pic.twitter.com/UsSOYb7bQg

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 22, 2024