Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Launches Phase 2 Clinical Study for Non-Invasive Skin Cancer Treatment
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, UAE – September 8, 2025
In a significant advancement for dermatological treatment, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD) has begun recruiting participants for a pivotal clinical trial investigating a novel non-invasive therapeutic approach to basal cell carcinoma (BCC), a prevalent form of skin cancer. The study is centered around Medicus Pharma Ltd.’s innovative asset, SKNJCT-004, which aims to provide an effective alternative to traditional invasive treatment modalities.
Medicus Pharma Ltd., a biotechnology company publicly traded on NASDAQ under the ticker MDCX, has been at the forefront of developing transformative medications that target a range of health conditions. The initiation of patient recruitment for the SKNJCT-004 phase 2 clinical study marks a crucial milestone for the company, reflecting its ongoing commitment to advancing cutting-edge medical therapies and addressing critical health challenges.
The phase 2 study will involve a total of 36 participants and has received the necessary approval to proceed from the UAE Department of Health, which granted a “study may proceed” status in May 2025. This endorsement not only underscores the authority’s confidence in the potential of SKNJCT-004 but also highlights the UAE’s evolving landscape as a prominent hub for clinical research and innovation in the medical field.
BCC is notorious for its high incidence rate among skin cancers, affecting millions globally each year. While often regarded as the least aggressive form of skin cancer, its impacts on patients’ quality of life can still be significant, necessitating effective and minimally disruptive treatment options. Traditionally, management of BCC has involved surgical interventions, which, despite their effectiveness, can lead to complications such as scarring or infection and may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with comorbidities or those seeking less invasive methods.
The SKNJCT-004 treatment, characterized by its non-invasive approach, brings hope to patients who require effective and swift intervention without the associated risks of surgical procedures. By potentially employing advanced therapeutic technology, this study aims to demonstrate SKNJCT-004’s efficacy and safety profile through rigorous clinical evaluation.
Recruitment for this landmark study is set against the backdrop of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s ongoing mission to deliver world-class healthcare services bolstered by research and technology. Established as a beacon of advanced medical provision in the region, CCAD plays a central role in fostering the integration of pioneering healthcare practices and scientific research within the UAE and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The collaboration between Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Medicus Pharma Ltd. signifies a marriage of clinical expertise and innovative biotechnology, positioning both entities to contribute significantly to the field of dermatology and oncology. Furthermore, the trial serves as a testament to the UAE’s strategic investments in health innovation and research, enhancing its reputation as a leading nation in medical care and technology.
As the study progresses, it is anticipated that the outcomes from this clinical trial will inform not only best practices for treating BCC but also drive further innovations in non-invasive therapeutics, possibly extending beyond dermatological applications. Successful results could pave the way not only for enhanced patient care but could also stimulate further investments in biotech research and development within the region, creating new opportunities for economic growth and improving public health outcomes.
Stakeholders within the healthcare, biotechnology, and investment sectors will undoubtedly be watching the progress of this study with keen interest, as it represents a potential leap forward in the management of skin cancer and reflects the dynamic landscape of health innovations within the UAE.
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