New AI Tool DOLPHIN Detects Hidden Disease Markers in Cells

New AI Tool DOLPHIN Detects Hidden Disease Markers in Cells
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Researchers at McGill University have developed an artificial intelligence tool named DOLPHIN that can uncover previously hidden disease markers within individual human cells, potentially revolutionizing early detection and personalized treatment, SciTechDaily revealed.

Published in Nature Communications, the study explains that traditional genetic analysis often misses subtle shifts in RNA expression by combining signals into a single gene count. DOLPHIN moves beyond this by zooming in on how genes are spliced together from smaller components called exons. This granular, exon-level analysis provides a clearer view of cell states.

In a test case involving pancreatic cancer patients, DOLPHIN identified over 800 disease markers missed by conventional methods. It was able to successfully distinguish patients with aggressive, high-risk cancers from those with less severe cases.

The developers state that the tool will help physicians more accurately match patients with effective therapies, reducing trial-and-error in treatment, and lays the groundwork for building future digital models of human cells.