CHI-MA-HAEM-NET, is a collaborative R&I project between Prof Guo at Soochow University, China, and Prof Gatt at the Department of Pathology, University of Malta, looking at various aspects of Haemophilia, an inherited bleeding disorder, in both China and Malta.

This joint venture was essential to study a similar rare disorder. Also of paramount importance was the alliance with the Malta Bleeding Disorders Society, since this research directly impacted on the quality of life of the same persons participating. One example was the establishment of a Haemophilia register, which is standard of care in Europe for the day to day management of haemophilia.

The project also analysed whether anticoagulation is essential in similar patients undergoing joint replacement surgery. This was carried out through clinical studies conducted in China, where the number of similar procedures is high, and through an in vitro model of anticoagulation in haemophilia created in Malta. The aggregate of the results shows that a personalised, tailored approach is the best way to treat similar patients instead of administering blood thinners routinely as is currently done in patients without haemophilia.

We remain optimistic that this collaboration, which has successfully brought together two countries, will continue to generate valuable data. By fostering knowledge exchange and shared expertise, we anticipate sustained progress that will further enhance patient outcomes and contribute to the advancement of medical research."

This project received funding from Xjenza Malta and the Ministry for Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China (MOST), through the SINO-MALTA Fund 2021 Call (Science and Technology Cooperation).

Information and logo source: CHI-MA-HAEM-NET