Karachi: “Modern medicine is entering a new era in which precise, tailor-made treatment for each patient can only be guided by the molecular understanding of their disease. Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing diagnostics and research, but its true potential is realized only when combined with human insight’, said Prof Dr. SM Tariq Rafi, Chairman, Sindh Higher Education Commission.
He was addressing as the chief guest at 1st international conference on molecular medicine in healthcare themed ‘Innovation in Molecular Medicine: Transforming Clinical Practice Through Research’ organized by the College of Molecular Medicine, Ziauddin University.
The conference aimed at bringing a better understanding of disease at the molecular level, foster precision medicine, and encourage research-driven approaches in developing innovative diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient-specific treatments.
Highlighting this critical shift away from traditional clinical practices to molecular-based health care, Professor Dr. Tariq Rafi said ‘By exploring the molecular basis of diseases, clinicians and researchers are now empowered to develop treatments that are highly effective and patient-specific. Artificial Intelligence is enhancing our ability to diagnose and understand complex condition.”
While addressing the conference, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shaikh, Vice-Chancellor of Ziauddin University, reflected upon the transformative potential of the field. ‘Molecular medicine is transforming healthcare by connecting each patient’s unique biological profile with accurate, targeted treatments and predictive insights.”
“Ziauddin University is proud to host the 1st International Conference on Molecular Medicine in Healthcare,” he congratulated.
The conference also featured Prof. Dr. Shahana Urooj Kazmi, President of the Pakistan Society of Microbiology, as a keynote speaker who explored the role of genomics and molecular technologies in developing effective therapeutics. She emphasized how research-driven approaches are crucial for precision medicine and the future of healthcare.
Shedding light on innovative methods to enhance treatment efficacy and targeted therapies another keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, discussed supramolecular approaches in drug delivery while Dr. Syed M. Shahid from Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Auckland, New Zealand emphasized the molecular and lifestyle-linked risks of diabetes, and mentioned the importance of understanding molecular mechanisms alongside lifestyle interventions for better disease management.
Earlier in her speech, Prof. Dr. Talat Mirza, Executive Director Research, and Principal, College of Molecular Medicine, brought in attention the rising significance of molecular medicine, stating, ‘Molecular medicine is an emerging discipline that is already shaping the future of healthcare delivery. Leading medical institutes worldwide are integrating it into their academic programs.’
Poster presentations were also held during the conference, showcasing innovative research by students and young researchers. In the postgraduate category, Dr. Kevin Joseph secured first position, followed by Dr. Afifa Razi in second place and Rafia Bilquis Siddiq in third. In the undergraduate category, Anoosha Asif won first position, Hafiza Saleha secured second place, while Amna Asad stood third.