Ph.D, ABRM.
As the sun rises over the golden sands, I find myself contemplating the quiet promise of healing that stem cells hold.
And upon each new dawn, I seek their possibilities, hoping that by sunset, I will have helped discover another small piece of the puzzle that binds us all together in the wonder of existence.
Ahlan wa Sahlan.
Welcome to my professional space. I am Dr. Hatim Alabbas, an acknowledged authority in immunology, immunogenetics, histocompatibility, and cellular therapy, with over two decades of dedicated expertise. My work is driven by a clear vision: to advance healthcare through thoughtful innovation, rigorous research, and an unwavering commitment to clinical excellence. As the Head of the M42 Cord Blood Bank at Mubadala G42 Healthcare, I oversee strategic initiatives, quality assurance, and laboratory operations. This position allows me to align cutting-edge science with the highest standards of patient care, ensuring meaningful progress in the field of regenerative medicine.
Throughout my career, I have laid foundations that continue to shape the landscape of immunogenetics and cellular therapy. I established Sudan’s first dedicated Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Research Laboratory at Ahfad University and the Pathology Department at Royal Care Hospital. My work introducing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) HLA technology to the Dubai Health Authority marked a turning point in the region’s immunogenetics capabilities, setting new benchmarks for precision and innovation.
Beyond my clinical and operational contributions, I hold academic roles as an adjunct faculty member at Mohammed Bin Rashid University in the UAE and a Visiting Professor at the University of Khartoum. My involvement extends to the Arab Society of Histocompatibility and Immunogenomics, as well as serving on the UAE National Committee for Cord Blood and Stem Cells, where I contribute to shaping policy and advancing the field.
My academic path – spanning a BSc in Medical Laboratory Science, an MSc and PhD in Immunology, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Regenerative Medicine—reflects my lifelong dedication to expanding the boundaries of knowledge and practice. Thank you for visiting this space. I look forward to connecting with you.
With over 20 years in the fields of immunology, immunogenetics, and cellular therapy, my expertise spans a broad spectrum, anchored in precision and purpose:
My work is grounded in the belief that healthcare should transcend boundaries – of science, geography, and possibility. Every initiative I lead is an expression of this commitment: to improve outcomes, redefine standards, and leave a lasting impact on patients, practitioners, and the scientific community alike.
There’s a revolution in medicine - a quiet, powerful force that holds the promise to alter healthcare. At its core are cord blood stem cells, a resource so extraordinary that it demands our unwavering attention and support. These cells, rich with potential and ethically sourced, represent one of the most profound breakthroughs in transplantation.
Let’s consider the evidence. Since the first successful cord blood transplant in 1988, performed by the visionary Dr. Eliane Gluckman, over 40,000 transplants have been carried out globally. Today, cord blood stem cells are used to treat more than 80 diseases, including leukemias, lymphomas, and inherited metabolic and immune disorders. In some cases, cord blood has been the only viable option for patients who lack a fully matched bone marrow donor.
These cells offer several distinct advantages:
Despite these groundbreaking advancements, umbilical cord blood stem cells continue to navigate a complex landscape. Some stakeholders, with a focus on traditional approaches, have expressed reservations about the broader adoption of cord blood, citing factors such as unit size. However, it is important to recognize the significant strides made in addressing these concerns, showcasing the immense potential of cord blood in advancing medical science and patient care.
But the science doesn’t lie. Research into cord blood is not just thriving but accelerating. Clinical trials are exploring its use in cerebral palsy, autism, Type 1 diabetes, and even conditions like stroke and spinal cord injuries. Early results are promising, and the potential for life-changing treatments is enormous.
Consider this: every year, approximately 140 million babies are born worldwide, and each birth represents a unique opportunity to collect and preserve this invaluable resource. Yet, more than 98% of umbilical cords are discarded as medical waste. That is not just a loss - it is a heartbreaking misfortune.
The economics are compelling, too. A robust cord blood banking system could save billions of the strongest currencies in healthcare costs by reducing reliance on invasive procedures and long hospital stays. Furthermore, for nations investing in public health, cord blood stem cells provide an opportunity to create equitable, accessible therapies that bridge the gap for underrepresented communities.
This is not about one approach versus another, nor is it about competing therapies like cord blood versus bone marrow or pharmaceuticals. It’s about developing a complementary and holistic framework for regenerative medicine that focuses on the best outcomes for patients. It’s important to understand that science and ethics must work together to create a future where every life is valued, and every patient has hope.
The significance of this issue is too great for us to stay passive. We must advocate for continued investment in research, funding, and public awareness to ensure that the potential of umbilical cord blood stem cells is fully realized.
This is not just another issue to debate. The science is clear, and the potential is there, yet we continue to see inaction. We cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away. There are lives at stake, and that’s a reality we can’t ignore. We are at a crossroads, and those who stand in the way of progress must be held accountable. This is not a time for hesitation or half-measures. We need to move past the talk and push for real, meaningful action. It’s time for all of us—scientists, policymakers, healthcare providers, and parents—to do what’s necessary to ensure this resource is put to use for the benefit of those who need it most. The future of healthcare won’t wait for us to be ready; we must act now to shape it with the tools we already have.
