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New HCST-Funded Project Targets Glycation to Tackle Non-Communicable Diseases

The Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST) has awarded a 162,000 USD research grant in 2025 for a pioneering project titled “Protamine–Nanoparticle Complexes: A Novel Intervention for Glycation Inhibition for Controlling Non-Communicable Diseases.”

The project is led by Dr. Walhan Alshaer as Principal Investigator, in collaboration with Dr. Ahmed Telfah. This research aims to develop and characterize innovative protamine–nanoparticle complexes designed to inhibit glycation processes, which are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of major non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.

By introducing a nanoscale, mechanistically targeted approach to glycation control, this project is expected to open new avenues for preventive and adjunctive therapies, strengthen the national research capacity in nanomedicine and metabolic disease, and lay the groundwork for future translational and commercialization opportunities.​