Camel placenta could be the latest biomaterial used in medicine to regenerate damaged tissue, as scientists in Saudi Arabia explore how effective it may be in treating osteoarthritis.
Cartilage is a critical component in healthy joints but damage caused by old age, obesity and injury can result in painful, life-limiting conditions. Most existing therapies focus on management of symptoms and pain.
But scientists hope new research into the use of camel placenta extract in animals with osteoarthritis − the most common chronic joint condition in Saudi Arabia − could help regenerate damaged human tissue.
How would it work?
Regenerative therapies using stem cells or platelet-rich plasma extracted from human fat are currently used to treat chronic patients, but this can cost up to Dh30,000 ($8,160).
The process involves removing stomach fat through liposuction, spinning the material to extract stem cells, then injecting it back into the patient’s damaged joint.
Using, camel placenta − material discarded after birth as waste but loaded with essential amino acids − could be a more affordable alternative, scientists believe.
“Camels are highly valued in our culture here in the kingdom, and that deep interest helped spark a new idea for us,” Nouf bin Awad, a health policy specialist and pharmacist at the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, who led the research at King Saud University, told The National.
“The benefits of camel milk have been researched, but the placenta was a completely different idea. It offered a great alternative to human placenta, which often comes with ethical concerns when used in medical or cosmetic products. Potentially, this is a good option for those patients who can't go for surgery, which can be a costly approach.”
Over-50s at risk
A recent cross-sectional study of adults over 50 in the country found between 30 and 40 per cent were affected by knee arthritis, significantly more than elsewhere.
The World Health Organisation estimates that worldwide, around 10 per cent of men and 18 per cent of women over 60 have the condition.
According to the kingdom’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, there are 1.8 million camels in the country − providing plenty scope to utilise natural biowaste for research and potential medical treatments.
Researchers found an injectable treatment using camel placenta reduced inflammation and swelling in rats, while promoting cartilage regeneration.
It was also seen to suppress enzymes that break down joint tissue and had a similar effect on pain management as diclofenac − a commonly prescribed arthritis medication − but without the side effects of gastrointestinal problems.
The treatment was presented at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 2025 in April, and was awarded a gold innovation award.
“At this early stage, the initial cost is low as the camel placenta is the primary component, and a natural by-product that is disposed with after the camel gives birth,” said Ms Awad. “This gives us access to a natural rich resource that in the future we can manage and study further to develop.”
Clinical trials with humans are now planned in partnership with the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia, to further develop the novel treatment as a commercially available injectable.
Potential therapies
Dr Hesham Al Khateeb, an orthopaedic surgeon at Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, said the research had potential for wide use.
“Placentas have a lot of growth factors and stem cells, while from an abundance perspective you've got a lot of camels in this region, so this should be explored,” he said.
“Stem cells are used a lot in arthritis, but usually we take the stem cells from the individual, then inject them. Current treatments for arthritis vary, it's an extensive field. You can start very basic with cortisone injections, which is the gold standard. But it’s not a one size fits all category, as it depends on the degree of arthritis. If it's early stages, this is where this regenerative, biological treatment can be very effective.”
The cartilage regeneration market is a significant growth area of medical research, and investment. Globally, the market accounted for $1.16 billion in 2023 and is forecast to be worth $5,62 billion by 2034, analysts at Fortune Business Insights predict.
Rising rates of joint disorders and sporting injuries, as well as more people living longer into old age make it an area of healthcare primed for growth.
“Osteoarthritis is basically wear and tear of joint cartilage,” said Dr Amrut Borade, an orthopaedic surgeon at International Modern Hospital, Dubai. “The most common factor is old age and other contributing factors like obesity and muscle inactivity. The first line of treatment is lifestyle modification and weight reduction.”
While some patients in early stages of osteoarthritis may benefit from supplements, such as fish oils, calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, doctors can also inject damaged areas with a cortisone steroid or hyaluronic acid to lubricate the joint.
“It's actually quite difficult to regenerate completely damaged cartilage, but we want to focus in early stages of osteoarthritis to prevent the progression and protect the cartilage,” said Dr Borade. “Placenta treatments are clearly in experimental stages but do have some promise. There still needs a lot of research, especially when being used in the human body.”
The Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia is exploring the potential solution to directly address the need for accessible, regenerative osteoarthritis therapies.
“We have these promising results and we hope to see this treatment in reality and used by the Ministry of Health and also, by the world,” said Dr Meznah Alturaiki, project and international relations manager at the innovation centre, at the Saudi Ministry of Health.
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
GOLF’S RAHMBO
- 5 wins in 22 months as pro
- Three wins in past 10 starts
- 45 pro starts worldwide: 5 wins, 17 top 5s
- Ranked 551th in world on debut, now No 4 (was No 2 earlier this year)
- 5th player in last 30 years to win 3 European Tour and 2 PGA Tour titles before age 24 (Woods, Garcia, McIlroy, Spieth)
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A little about CVRL
Founded in 1985 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) is a government diagnostic centre that provides testing and research facilities to the UAE and neighbouring countries.
One of its main goals is to provide permanent treatment solutions for veterinary related diseases.
The taxidermy centre was established 12 years ago and is headed by Dr Ulrich Wernery.
How to come clean about financial infidelity
- Be honest and transparent: It is always better to own up than be found out. Tell your partner everything they want to know. Show remorse. Inform them of the extent of the situation so they know what they are dealing with.
- Work on yourself: Be honest with yourself and your partner and figure out why you did it. Don’t be ashamed to ask for professional help.
- Give it time: Like any breach of trust, it requires time to rebuild. So be consistent, communicate often and be patient with your partner and yourself.
- Discuss your financial situation regularly: Ensure your spouse is involved in financial matters and decisions. Your ability to consistently follow through with what you say you are going to do when it comes to money can make all the difference in your partner’s willingness to trust you again.
- Work on a plan to resolve the problem together: If there is a lot of debt, for example, create a budget and financial plan together and ensure your partner is fully informed, involved and supported.
Carol Glynn, founder of Conscious Finance Coaching
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Background: M&A, investment banking
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What is a credit score?
In the UAE your credit score is a number generated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which represents your credit worthiness – in other words, your risk of defaulting on any debt repayments. In this country, the number is between 300 and 900. A low score indicates a higher risk of default, while a high score indicates you are a lower risk.
Why is it important?
Financial institutions will use it to decide whether or not you are a credit risk. Those with better scores may also receive preferential interest rates or terms on products such as loans, credit cards and mortgages.
How is it calculated?
The AECB collects information on your payment behaviour from banks as well as utilitiy and telecoms providers.
How can I improve my score?
By paying your bills on time and not missing any repayments, particularly your loan, credit card and mortgage payments. It is also wise to limit the number of credit card and loan applications you make and to reduce your outstanding balances.
How do I know if my score is low or high?
By checking it. Visit one of AECB’s Customer Happiness Centres with an original and valid Emirates ID, passport copy and valid email address. Liv. customers can also access the score directly from the banking app.
How much does it cost?
A credit report costs Dh100 while a report with the score included costs Dh150. Those only wanting the credit score pay Dh60. VAT is payable on top.
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All couples are unique and have to create a financial blueprint that is most suitable for their relationship, says Vijay Valecha, chief investment officer at Century Financial. He offers his top five tips for couples to better manage their finances.
Discuss your assets and debts: When married, it’s important to understand each other’s personal financial situation. It’s necessary to know upfront what each party brings to the table, as debts and assets affect spending habits and joint loan qualifications. Discussing all aspects of their finances as a couple prevents anyone from being blindsided later.
Decide on the financial/saving goals: Spouses should independently list their top goals and share their lists with one another to shape a joint plan. Writing down clear goals will help them determine how much to save each month, how much to put aside for short-term goals, and how they will reach their long-term financial goals.
Set a budget: A budget can keep the couple be mindful of their income and expenses. With a monthly budget, couples will know exactly how much they can spend in a category each month, how much they have to work with and what spending areas need to be evaluated.
Decide who manages what: When it comes to handling finances, it’s a good idea to decide who manages what. For example, one person might take on the day-to-day bills, while the other tackles long-term investments and retirement plans.
Money date nights: Talking about money should be a healthy, ongoing conversation and couples should not wait for something to go wrong. They should set time aside every month to talk about future financial decisions and see the progress they’ve made together towards accomplishing their goals.
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Keep it fun and engaging
Stuart Ritchie, director of wealth advice at AES International, says children cannot learn something overnight, so it helps to have a fun routine that keeps them engaged and interested.
“I explain to my daughter that the money I draw from an ATM or the money on my bank card doesn’t just magically appear – it’s money I have earned from my job. I show her how this works by giving her little chores around the house so she can earn pocket money,” says Mr Ritchie.
His daughter is allowed to spend half of her pocket money, while the other half goes into a bank account. When this money hits a certain milestone, Mr Ritchie rewards his daughter with a small lump sum.
He also recommends books that teach the importance of money management for children, such as The Squirrel Manifesto by Ric Edelman and Jean Edelman.
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