Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have received a significant grant to develop an innovative approach to medical imaging using artificial intelligence (AI). The four-year, $1.1 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) aims to make medical imaging safer, more efficient, and cost-effective.
Traditional medical imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and X-rays, rely on the use of chemical “contrast agents” to enhance diagnostic accuracy. However, these agents can be expensive, resource-intensive, and may lead to potential side effects. With the increasing number of patients requiring medical imaging, finding alternatives to address these concerns is crucial for maintaining the quality of care.
The researchers at Case Western Reserve University will leverage their NSF funding to develop an AI-based approach that eliminates the need for contrast agents. By utilizing only non-contrast images, they aim to create a faster, safer, and cheaper imaging method. The project will explore a new category of image features specifically designed for MRI scans, with the goal of creating an “AI contrast agent.”
The development of a non-chemical imaging technique not only addresses the challenges associated with contrast agents but also tackles supply chain issues, such as the shortage of iodinated contrast media and the global helium shortage. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics by providing a more accessible and efficient imaging process.
The grant funding is supported by the NSF’s Smart Health and Biomedical Research program, which aims to promote advancements in computer and information science, behavioral and cognitive research, mathematics, statistics, engineering, and public health. This research reflects the growing interest in using AI to improve medical imaging, with the global market expected to reach USD 14,271.80 million by 2032.
With the rapid advancements in AI technology, startups are capitalizing on this boom to address the limitations in medical imaging. This shift towards AI-enabled imaging is transforming medical screenings, precision medicine, and patient risk assessment. As researchers continue to explore the potential of AI in healthcare, the development of an AI-based imaging technique has the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
The source of the article is from the blog smartphonemagazine.nl