Prof. Ing. Simon G Fabri, the Pro Rector of the University of Malta, was the first UM academic to donate blood for project StudjuDWARNA.
StudjuDWARNA will perform genomic sequencing and analysis of a representative reference Maltese collection unselected for disease. It aims to answer specific questions on the genomic architecture underlying both rare and common diseases in the Maltese population, and eventually to relate genomic findings to clinical outcomes in longitudinal studies. StudjuDWARNA will also enable the construction of a reference Maltese genome, which will be a powerful tool for health research.
The public may become involved in the study by using the dwarna.mt portal. This interactive online platform designed to facilitate research into the genetic causes and potential treatments for various diseases, empowers participants by offering the possibility of dynamic consent, ensuring transparency and ethical governance throughout the entire research process. Developed by Professor Gillian Martin’s multidisciplinary team of social scientists, ethicists and IT specialists, this platform is closely linked to the institution's biobank, DwarnaBio. DwarnaBio will collect and store biological samples and associated clinical data from volunteers, to be used by collaborative research at the University of Malta. DwarnaBio thus serves as a repository for valuable samples and data, governed by stringent ethical guidelines, and accessible only to research projects that have received full ethical approval.
Project StudjuDWARNA is the foundational study at DwarnaBio and stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of genetic research and disease treatments in Malta. Prof. Ing. Simon G Fabri's being the first University of Malta academic to give a blood donation for StudjuDWARNA exemplifies the values of compassion, dedication, and scientific curiosity. Through this initiative, Malta has taken a significant stride towards a future where medical breakthroughs are fueled by collective efforts and ethical practices.
Prof. Nikolai Pace is the Principal Investigator on the StudjuDWARNA.