By Adel Alharbe

DAMMAM — The Institute for Research & Medical Consultations (IRMC) affiliated with Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Eastern Province, has successfully completed preclinical research studies as part of its efforts to produce the first Saudi vaccine against coronavirus.

A research team from the institute, led by Dr. Iman Al-Mansour, is awaiting the necessary approvals to start clinical trials for the vaccine research.

Regarding the research study, Dr. Eman Al-Mansour (assistant professor, who holds a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering and biotechnology from the University of Massachusetts), said that the vaccine was developed, using DNA technology as it provides several advantages, including the ability to stimulate humoral and cellular immunity, as well as the ease of transport and storage, and high stability and does not require transporting it under very low temperature.

She emphasized that this study is considered among the strategic projects and scientific research at the IAU, which is supported by the agency for research and innovation in the Ministry of Education and has been published in a reputable academic journal.