The American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine inaugurated the Imad and Najah Taher CAR T-Cell Therapy Program on February 25, 2025, marking a historic milestone in the fight against cancer. CAR T-Cell therapy, an advanced form of immunotherapy, harnesses the body's own immune system to target and eliminate cancer cells. With the launch of this new program, AUB joins a select group of medical institutions worldwide that offer this cutting-edge therapy, providing new hope to patients battling hematologic malignancies and other cancers.
"The launch of our CAR T-Cell Therapy Program represents a paradigm shift in cancer treatment," said Vice President for Health Affairs and Raja N. Khuri Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Raymond Sawaya. “This breakthrough will not only enhance survival rates but also improve the quality of life for patients. We are proud to be at the forefront of medical innovation and committed to delivering personalized, life-saving therapies."
During the inauguration ceremony, President Fadlo Khuri highlighted “the importance of continuous philanthropy in changing lives." He noted that AUB was able to join “an elite group of medical organization in the MENA region all due to the efforts of all the teams that have diligently worked to reach this milestone."
The new program was made possible through the generous support of Imad Taher and strongly supported by his son, Jad, who shares his father's deep commitment to innovation and patient care. They also share an appreciation for the importance of philanthropy in funding critical research, infrastructure, and resources. “We believe in the power of science and medicine to create a better future, and we are honored to support this life-changing endeavor," said Imad Taher.
Dr. Ali Bazarbachi, professor of medicine (hematology and oncology), professor of anatomy, cell biology, and physiological sciences, and director of The Bone Marrow Transplantation Program at AUBMC applauded the Taher family for their impactful, noting that “it will benefit future generations of cancer patients at our medical center."