Ornella Hernandez is joined by Dr. Anna Cichonska and Dr. Rayees Rahman from Harmonic Discovery, a biotech company focused on developing a groundbreaking treatment for sickle cell anemia, one of the most common rare diseases globally, particularly prevalent in the MENA region. The duo are working on a novel approach that mimics the mechanism of gene therapy but delivers it in a more accessible and safer oral pill form, making it available to a broader range of patients who currently cannot afford or access traditional gene therapies.
They discuss their strategic choice to establish their operations in Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), which they see as a burgeoning biotech ecosystem, potentially the “next Boston” of the Middle East. The energy and support at Hub 71, where they are based, are highlighted as key factors in their decision.
The conversation also touches on the significant impact they hope to achieve, not just through their innovative treatment but also in improving the lives of patients suffering from sickle cell anemia. They are gearing up for phase one clinical trials in the next 18 to 24 months and are planning to open a fundraising round early next year.