January 16, 2025–The Punjab Thalassemia & Other Genetic Disorders Prevention & Research Institute, Lahore, and the Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to offer advanced, cost-effective genetic diagnosis and genetic counselling to at-risk families across Pakistan. The primary objective is the prevention of genetic disorders through Prenatal and Postnatal genetic testing, thereby reducing disease burden in Pakistan.

The Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB) at the University of the Punjab is a leading research institute, known for its pioneering work in genetic diseases. CEMB has enrolled more than 5000 consanguineous families with a history of inherited recessive disorders. Through the identification of genetic loci and genes in these families, CEMB aims to enhance understanding at the molecular level, leading to improved genetic counselling, family screening, and potential future treatments.

The signing ceremony was graced by Director of CEMB, Prof. Moazur Rahman, and Director General Prof Yasmeen Ehsan Punjab Thalassemia & Other Genetic Disorders Prevention & Research Institute, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore along with scientists at Genetic Diseases lab at CEMB.