European Research Council supports AI project by DZL researcher

The project Ai4Cilia from DZL scientist Janna Nawroth (Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Munich, DZL site CPC-M) harnesses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyze the rhythmic motion of cilia - microscopic, hair-like structures vital to respiratory and reproductive health. Defects in ciliary movement can signal disease like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but these abnormalities are difficult to detect and often overlooked in clinical practice.

A team around Nawroth has developed a microfluidic platform to standardize the collection of data from ciliated cells, which can be harvested in the clinical via minimally invasive tissue brushing. By using AI to analyze complex ciliary patterns, the platform promises to improve diagnostics and facilitate drug discovery.

“AI-powered ciliary beat analysis has the potential to transform how we diagnose and treat complex conditions,” says Nawroth. “Integrating this tool into healthcare can provide more accurate and timely solutions for patients.”

The European Research Council (ERC) supports this project by awarding a renowned Proof of Concept Grant. The associated funding will allow Janna Nawroth to continue Ai4Cilia for another 18 months.

Source: AI-Powered Cilia Analysis – CPC - M