Saudi Arabia’s KAUST, University of Michigan collaborate in study on cancer treatment
Samah Al-Harithi added that this theory supports previous research from the University of Michigan team, which showed that ASH1L protein inhibitors work by reducing the boost of leukemia cells or cancers of the white blood cells
Updated 06 February 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: In a joint research study with the University of Michigan, the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology discovered a mechanism of action for the MRG15 protein, which regulates the activity of a second protein called ASH1L found in many types of cancer, KAUST announced.
The study’s lead author Samah Al-Harithi explained that the simultaneous binding of MRG15 to ASH1L and the nuclear particle suggests design strategies for alternative drugs that could be more effective in reducing the role of ASH1L in forming tumors.
She added that this theory supports previous research from the University of Michigan team, which showed that ASH1L protein inhibitors work by reducing the boost of leukemia cells or cancers of the white blood cells.
Associate professor and structural biologist Lukasz Jaremko at KAUST, who led the study, explained: “The results showed that experimental ASH1L inhibitors are not affected by the MRG15 protein. Therefore, certain protein interactions should not be a major criterion in cancer drug design.”
Makkah’s urban shift enhances city’s quality of life
By harmonizing religious heritage with modern urban development, Makkah proves that a city can honor its past while embracing the future
Updated 18 min 25 sec ago
Arab News
MAKKAH: Islam’s holiest city is at present witnessing a qualitative urban shift, one that seamlessly blends its spiritual sanctity with a modern, vibrant lifestyle.
By integrating cultural, educational, and entertainment initiatives, Makkah is redefining the visitor experience and significantly enhancing the quality of life for its residents, directly supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The city’s transformation was recently highlighted by the success of the Makkah winter season. The event attracted approximately 400,000 visitors — more than 60 percent of whom were locals — demonstrating a strong domestic demand for high-quality public spaces. The season revitalized community interaction, driving a 35 per cent increase in visits to recreational sites and creating more than 1,200 temporary jobs for the local workforce.
Central to this urban renaissance is the Hira Cultural District. Since opening doors in January 2023 near the historic Mount Hira, the district has become a definitive landmark that bridges Islamic history with contemporary identity.
Far from being a static monument, the district has cultivated a thriving creative economy. Its craftsmanship program, which features over 100 artisans, has generated up to SR3 million ($800,269) in sales and attracted 130,000 visitors to live workshops. These interactive spaces allow visitors to engage directly with the region’s heritage, moving beyond passive observation to active participation.
Makkah’s Hira Cultural District has become a definitive landmark that bridges Islamic history with contemporary identity. (SPA photo)
A living legacy
The shift extends to Makkah’s broader ecosystem of museums and cultural sites, which are now positioned as key pillars of cultural tourism. Facilities such as the Revelation Exhibition use cutting-edge technology and multilingual content to narrate the story of the Holy Quran’s revelation, offering an immersive experience that complements the spiritual journey of pilgrims.
These efforts align with the “Makkah: A Living Legacy” campaign, which seeks to document the city’s historical narrative and preserve its collective memory. Recent months have featured a surge in educational workshops for university students and tour guides, ensuring that the human element of Makkah’s history is conveyed with accuracy and depth.
City’s transformation recently highlighted by the success of the Makkah winter season. (SPA photo)
Economic and social impact
The results of this integrated approach are tangible. Specialized museums and restored historic sites now attract up to 1.6 million visitors a year. This cultural enrichment is encouraging pilgrims to linger longer, increasing the average duration of stay by 18 percent.
By harmonizing its religious heritage with modern urban development, Makkah is proving that a city can honor its past while embracing the future, offering a holistic experience that nourishes the soul and the community.
