AI Meets Cardiology: Bayosthiti and Narayana Partner to Predict Heart Disease in Indian Patients

Bayosthiti AI, an innovator in AI-driven healthcare and molecular diagnostics, announced a strategic partnership with Narayana Health, one of the world's largest cardiac care networks, to develop AI models that predict cardiovascular disease in Indian patients. The collaboration leverages RNA sequencing to read the active molecular instructions in cells, combined with gen AI to identify heart disease risk earlier and more accurately than conventional methods.

The study will analyze transcriptomic data (the complete set of active cellular RNA messages) from over 12,000 participants at Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences in Bengaluru. Using Bayosthiti's proprietary BIRT™ technology, researchers will sequence complete RNA profiles from patient blood samples to train AI models. These models will be capable of detecting distinctive patterns of cellular activity that signal coronary artery disease (blockages in heart arteries) before traditional tests show abnormalities.

Coronary artery disease affects 65 million Indians and strikes at younger ages than in Western populations. Yet, diagnostic tools remain largely calibrated to European and American patient data, creating what clinicians call the "Data Gap." Standard risk scores miss critical patterns in South Asian biology shaped by distinct genetic backgrounds and environmental factors, leading to late-stage diagnoses when intervention options narrow.

Bayosthiti AI and Narayana Health are solving this through molecular innovation and clinical scale. Narayana performs over 60,000 cardiac procedures annually, generating rich clinical data. Bayosthiti's BIRT™ (Barcode-Integrated Reverse Transcription) technology sequences complete RNA profiles at a fraction of traditional costs by processing multiple patient samples in parallel. This breakthrough makes it economically viable to build the massive datasets required to train robust AI models tailored for Indian populations, ensuring highly accurate and individualized genetic analysis.

Current diagnostics rely on anatomical imaging or protein markers, both of which detect disease after it has physically manifested. RNA sequencing captures the dynamic instructions cells are executing in real time. By analyzing which genetic instructions are being transcribed (actively used to make proteins) and at what levels, Bayosthiti's AI can detect when biological systems shift toward disease states, potentially months or years before structural damage appears.

"Just as Google Translate learned language patterns from billions of text examples, our AI learns disease patterns from millions of RNA expressions," said Dr. Rishabh M. Shetty, Head of Business Development and Clinical Applications at Bayosthiti AI. "The transcriptome gives us a real-time readout of what the body is doing right now. Our models can spot the molecular conversation that precedes a heart attack, not just the aftermath, and can do so with the same level of accuracy and efficacy as invasive procedures or other current imaging gold standards."

The clinical credibility matters. Narayana Health's scale and reputation make it an ideal validation partner. Its leadership views AI integration as the next frontier in expanding access and improving outcomes. "AI-based technologies aren't the future of medicine. They're the present," said Dr. P.M. Uthappa, Group Chief Medical Director at Narayana Health. "This collaboration lets us move from intervention to prevention. The ability to identify high-risk patients earlier and more precisely is a clinical game-changer."

The partnership builds on Bayosthiti's momentum since establishing operations in India. The company has processed samples from over 100 collaborations globally, and this study represents a significant expansion in both scope and strategic importance.

"We've relied too long on a one-size-fits-all approach to medicine," said Kutapa Muthanna, CEO of Bayosthiti AI. "This isn't just about closing a data gap. It's about building the foundation for proactive, personalized medicine created by Indians, for Indians. When we can tell someone their heart disease risk is rising before any scan shows blockage, we transform care from reactive to preventive."

The three-phase study design allows for continuous improvement. Successfully validating these AI models would provide proof-of-concept for deploying similar approaches for other high-burden diseases in India. As the partnership progresses, findings will inform the development of a blood-based diagnostic test deployable at scale across India's healthcare system.

About Bayosthiti AI

Bayosthiti AI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of US-based Biostate AI, is India’s first AI-first healthcare company pioneering Lifetime Health Management. By integrating patented BIRT™ and other cutting-edge molecular technologies with advanced generative AI, Bayosthiti is building a foundational health-tech platform for India. This platform includes 24/7 AI Clinical Assistants and AI Scientists for patients, clinicians, and researchers, making personalized precision care a reality for all.

For more information, visit https://bayosthiti.ai/.

About Narayana Hrudayalaya

Narayana Hrudayalaya, operating under the brand name Narayana Health, is one of India’s leading private healthcare service providers. The group operates a nationwide network of hospitals with a mission to deliver high-quality, safe and technology-enabled healthcare to the broader population. Renowned globally for its expertise in Cardiac Sciences, Narayana Health has been at the forefront of heart care for over two decades, performing one of the highest volumes of cardiac procedures in the world.

As the only hospital group in India with Enterprise-level Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, Narayana Health upholds the highest standards of quality and patient safety across its network. Guided by its core values of Quality, Compassion, and Innovation, Narayana Health remains committed to its vision of ‘Health for all. All for Health.’

For more information, visit narayanahealth.org.

AI Designs Viruses That Kill Bacteria—A New Frontier in Synthetic Biology

In a stunning leap for synthetic biology, scientists have used artificial intelligence to design viruses that can infect and kill bacteria—ushering in a new era of programmable life forms and potentially revolutionizing medicine.

Researchers at Stanford University and the Arc Institute trained an AI model named Evo on over 2 million bacteriophage genomes. The goal? To teach the system how nature builds viruses that target bacteria. Evo didn’t just remix existing genetic material—it generated 302 entirely new viral genomes, many of which had never existed in nature.

Of those, 16 assembled into fully functional viruses that successfully infected and destroyed E. coli bacteria in lab tests. This marks the first time AI has been used to design complete, working viruses from scratch.

“We’re not just accelerating evolution—we’re directing it,” said one of the lead researchers. “This opens the door to custom-built phages that could target antibiotic-resistant bacteria with surgical precision.”

Why This Matters

• Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, with superbugs killing over a million people annually.
• Phage therapy, which uses viruses to kill bacteria, has long been seen as a promising alternative—but finding the right phage is slow and unpredictable.
• AI could dramatically speed up the discovery and design of targeted phages, potentially enabling personalized treatments for infections.

The Ethical Frontier

While the study focused solely on bacteriophages and excluded viruses that infect humans, the implications are profound. Experts warn that AI-designed viruses could behave unpredictably in complex ecosystems. There are also concerns about biosecurity and the potential misuse of such technology.

“We need robust oversight and ethical frameworks,” said a bioethicist not involved in the study. “This is powerful tech, and with great power comes great responsibility.”

What’s Next?

• The team plans to expand Evo’s capabilities to design phages for other bacterial strains, including those responsible for hospital-acquired infections.
• There’s growing interest in using AI to design viruses for agriculture, microbiome engineering, and environmental cleanup.

This breakthrough isn’t just about killing bacteria—it’s about reimagining what life can be. With AI as a co-creator, biology may no longer be bound by the slow march of evolution. It’s entering the age of intelligent design.

Dectrocel Bags ₹4 Crore from BioAngels, PadUp Ventures to Accelerate AI-Powered Healthcare Tools

Dectrocel, a pioneering health-tech company developing AI-powered diagnostic solutions, has raised ₹4 crore in recent funding. The round was led by IAN Group-powered BioAngels, with participation from PadUp Ventures and Vinners.

Key investors from IAN in this round include Nitin Zamre, Samir Kalia, and Mitesh Shah. The fresh infusion of capital will be used to scale Dectrocel’s commercial operations across India, enhance its self-learning foundational multimodal AI technology, expand into international markets, and accelerate the launch of its upcoming AI Tools in CT /MRI/PET-CT and HPB diagnostic modules.

Headquartered in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Dectrocel has launched its flagship product, DecXpert, which is one of only three AI-based diagnostic tools approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for clinical use in India. The platform delivers chest X-ray and CT-scan interpretations that are 10 times faster and 98% accurate, addressing India’s acute radiologist shortage - currently at a staggering 1:125,000 doctor-to-patient ratio. This shortage results in diagnosis delays of 7 to 10 days and error rates of up to 40%, particularly in tier-2 and smaller cities where timely intervention can be life-saving.

Dectrocel was founded by Ankit Shukla, an AI-in-medicine expert from the University of Queensland; MS in Infectious Diseases from Duke Medical School, NUS, Singapore. Saumya Shukla, a Doctorate in Public Health from SGPGIMS with an MBA from NUS and MS in Data Science from Harvard; and Nikhil Mishra, an IIT Kanpur Researcher specializing in AI and machine learning applications in medicine.

The company’s mission stems from a deeply personal experience where a patient with a persistent cough went undiagnosed for months due to delayed X-ray interpretations and ultimately succumbed to late-stage lung cancer. This tragedy transformed the founders’ vision into a life-saving mission to democratize access to expert-level diagnostic capabilities for every patient, regardless of geography or income.

Mixed Reality Saves Mobility: Bengaluru Surgeons Rewire Hope in Rare Spine-Brain Procedure

In a case that truly showcased the technological advancements achieved by Bangalore, India in the field of Neuroscience, Niyati (name changed), a 37-year-old young IT Professional from Bengaluru working at US decided to head home for a complex surgery at the junction on base of the skull and upper part of the spine. She was Quadriparetic, which made her bedridden with complete loss of the ability to walk, use her hands or even control urination. When she consulted the neurosurgical center at the US, she was informed that due to the complexity of the surgery she might end up permanently weak in all four limbs and might even need ventilator support for breathing. This had shattered her self-confidence and increased the burden on her family.

6 months before, she noticed the first symptoms, which started with numbness in the limbs and muscle weakness that eventually progressed to quadriparesis. She was diagnosed with Atlantoaxial Dislocation after she moved to India for her treatment, which is basically loss of stability between the two topmost bones of the vertebrae. This condition usually arises due to a congenital deformity, which leads to the compression of the spinal cord that in turn results in neurological problems - culminating into quadriparesis in her case.

Since both bones are placed in a very complicated position, extremely close to the brain stem, it was imperative to gain a clear idea of where and how to operate. The treatment of such complex disorders requires expertise and technology. Technology played a very significant role at this juncture by providing the doctors with clear images that enabled them to plan the surgery in detail. In one-of-its kind situation, the surgical team at Aster Whitfield Hospital utilized Mixed Reality (Augmented Reality + Virtual Reality) to precisely measure the severity of the compression of the brain stem and spinal cord junction, identified bony compressive elements and to locate the vertebral artery in relation to the bones, understand the anatomy of dislocated bone and also rehearse the surgery first.

Mixed Reality (MR), which blends Augmented and Virtual Reality, provides 3D, immersive visualization of the spine with much greater depth perception and spatial awareness than traditional 2D imaging. It enables physicians to examine complex spinal anatomy, plan operations with precision, and diagnose deformities, fractures, and tumors more accurately. Going beyond assisting surgeons, MR also assists patients and families in understanding complicated conditions and procedures better, decreasing fear and enabling informed decision-making.

“Mixed Reality (Augmented Reality + Virtual Reality) greatly helped us to identify the exact position of the arteries to operate on. It also enabled us to anticipate any problems or complications we might face on the table and to prepare for it better.”, said Dr. Ramachandran G, Consultant – Spine & Deformity Surgeon, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru. “It provided clear images of the spinal structures that improved our precision and led to a successful outcome.”

The surgery went on for 5 hours which included repositioning of the displaced bones carefully to achieve normal alignment and stability of the spine along with releasing the contracted tissues surrounding the brainstem and vertebral artery that had compressed or tightened. This allowed for better circulation and a reduction in the risk of neurological disorders as well. However, the procedure presented several challenges. Mid-operation bleeding was meticulously managed by the doctors, while neural damage was mitigated through intraoperative neuromonitoring. The surgical team headed by Prof. Dr Satish Rudrappa, Group Director – Aster International Institute of Neurosciences and Spine Care and Dr Ramachandran Govindasamy, Consultant – Spine & Deformity Surgeon at Aster Whitefield Hospital.

“The surgical screws were fed in to intraoperative navigation and the screw trajectories were guided by us to achieve precision. In addition to helping us, Mixed Reality (Augmented Reality + Virtual Reality) assisted the patient and her family to understand the condition as well. It made understanding the problem and surgical procedure easier through holographic imaging which made them trust the process and agree to the surgery faster. This innovative approach allowed for precise navigation and execution of the surgery, leading to a successful outcome.”, said Prof. Dr. Satish Rudrappa, Group Director – Aster International Institute of Neurosciences and Spine Care, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.

Microsurgery, constant intraoperative neurological monitoring and precise postoperative care enabled the patient to attain good neurorehabilitation and be up by the very next day. She could even walk back home in less than 10 days from the surgery. Niyati has resumed her life in the U.S with no further complications. Her story is a testament of how cutting-edge technology and medical advancements can transform lives as well as establish India as a leader in the healthcare industry.

World's 1st FDA Approved Bioelectronic Implant for Arthritis

In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. FDA has approved the SetPoint System, the first neuroimmune modulation implant designed to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)—especially for patients who haven’t responded well to traditional medications.

What It Is

• A vitamin-sized neurostimulator implanted in the neck via a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
• Delivers 1-minute daily electrical pulses to the vagus nerve, which helps regulate inflammation and immune response.
• Patients recharge it wirelessly once a week using a collar-like neckband.

Clinical Impact

Based on the RESET-RA trial (242 patients), the device showed:

• Significant improvement in RA symptoms within 3 months.
• Sustained benefits at 12 months.
• 75% of participants were able to stop other RA medications entirely.
• Reported serious adverse events were low (~1.7%).

Why It Matters

• RA affects over 1.5 million Americans, causing chronic pain, joint damage, and disability.
• Traditional treatments like DMARDs and biologics can be costly and lose effectiveness over time.
• This implant offers a non-pharmaceutical, long-term solution—potentially lasting up to 10 years.

Bioelectronic Medicine Milestone

This marks a major leap in bioelectronic medicine, using the body’s own neural circuits to combat disease. SetPoint Medical plans a targeted U.S. rollout in late 2025, with broader availability expected in 2026.

The results of the RESET-RA study, which led to the FDA approval, are published in the journal Bioelectronic Medicine.

GenAI Healthtech Startup Arintra Raises $21 Mn to Expand Autonomous Coding Platform

• Healthcare organizations are facing increasing financial strain, but current coding solutions are falling short
• Arintra helps providers secure full, compliant reimbursement by combining GenAI-native coding automation, provider-specific clinical documentation improvement (CDI), and payer-aware denials insights while reducing costs
• With proven enterprise-scale outcomes at large health systems and physician groups, and investment from customers such as Endeavor Health Ventures, Arintra continues to expand nationwide

Arintra, the leading GenAI-native autonomous medical coding platform for healthcare providers, today announced $21 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Peak XV Partners, with participation from Endeavor Health Ventures, Y Combinator, Counterpart Ventures, Spider Capital, Ten13, and other strategic investors. The investment will fuel Arintra’s growth as it expands adoption across health systems and physician groups nationwide. The company will accelerate product development, scale its team, and open a new Bay Area headquarters to meet rising demand.

Healthcare organizations are facing greater financial strain than ever. Margins are thinner, coders are in short supply, and payer requirements are becoming increasingly complex. With new policies further impacting insurance reimbursement, providers need proactive automation solutions to get ahead and stay ahead.

Traditional autonomous coding solutions stop at accurately coding charts for reimbursement. Arintra goes further by delivering Revenue Assurance: a proactive, outcomes-driven approach that ensures health systems are reimbursed accurately and efficiently for the care they provide. The result: maximum compliant reimbursement, a more streamlined revenue cycle, with lower costs and tangible ROI.

“At Arintra, we bring together autonomous medical coding, clinical documentation improvement, and denial prevention in a single platform,” said Preeti Bhargava, Co-founder and CTO of Arintra. “By helping providers document what was done, code what was documented, and properly support what was charged, we enable them to secure full, compliant reimbursement at a lower cost, with fewer delays and significantly less manual effort.”

Arintra’s reimagined approach to medical coding has already processed over a billion dollars in healthcare charges. It has helped customers recover millions of dollars in otherwise missed revenue, while reducing manual work and accelerating cash flow.

• At Mercyhealth, Arintra delivered a 5.1% increase in revenue and 43% reduction in denials on claims automated, cut work queue aging by 50%, and lowered coding costs by 32%. Read the full case study.
• At Reid Health, Arintra helped speed up accounts receivable and improve coding accuracy across specialties.

“We chose Arintra because it integrates deeply with Epic and changed how we code without disrupting our workflows. We went from billing delays and high denials to faster A/R and fully automated charge capture. It is one of the few AI tools that delivers hard ROI, fast,” said Muhammad Siddiqui, Chief Information Officer at Reid Health.

The idea for Arintra was drawn from personal experience. After an emergency department visit, co-founder Preeti Bhargava received a surprisingly large bill. Unsure of what to do, she went through months of back-and-forth between her insurer and provider before it was revealed that a simple coding error had caused the issue. This highlighted not only the widespread breakdowns in how care is documented and reimbursed, but it showed how exposed patients and healthcare organizations are to something so technical and obscure that it can be difficult for humans to step in to rectify the issue.

This inspired computer science PhDs Preeti and Nitesh to analyze the problem through a modern technical lens and to reimagine medical coding as a strategic lever for healthcare’s financial health.

“Reimbursement in healthcare is fundamentally broken. Payers are moving fast, using policy and technology to shift more burden onto providers, but autonomous coding hasn't kept up,” said Nitesh Shroff, Co-founder and CEO of Arintra. “We built Arintra to help healthcare providers secure compliant revenue at scale while easing the burden on frontline teams.”

“The disruption of the $150 billion healthcare reimbursements industry will be one of AI’s defining impacts. Arintra’s autonomous system tackles one of the hardest challenges for providers; translating clinical documentation into accurate insurance codes so they get paid fairly and fast. The results speak for themselves; providers are recovering millions in lost revenue by partnering with Arintra. It is a great example of vertical AI done right - real enterprise adoption, clear ROI, and an ambitious roadmap as models continue to improve.” Mohit Bhatnagar, MD, Peak XV. “After backing Nitesh and Preeti at seed through our Surge Program, Peak XV Partners is excited to double down and lead Arintra’s Series A round.”

Arintra’s GenAI native platform combines large language models with clinical knowledge graphs to interpret patient charts in context and apply specialty-specific coding guidelines with precision. Every code that Arintra generates is fully explainable and auditable, helping build trust in a high-stakes environment. The platform integrates natively with leading Electronic Health Record systems (EHRs) including Epic and Athena, operating almost invisibly within existing workflows.

As adoption grows, Arintra continues to expand its capabilities to help more healthcare organizations achieve sustainable financial outcomes. With measurable ROI, lasting customer impact, and a deep understanding of healthcare’s financial challenges, Arintra is poised to become the trusted partner for revenue assurance in healthcare.

Visit https://arintra.com to learn more.

About Arintra

Arintra provides the industry’s leading GenAI-native autonomous coding platform, enabling health systems to get paid accurately and efficiently for the care they deliver, driving revenue assurance at scale. By combining cutting-edge AI with deep clinical expertise, Arintra autonomously codes charts with high accuracy, without human intervention. Unlike bolt-on tools, Arintra works directly within the EHR, ensuring seamless adoption with zero workflow changes or data integrity risk. Health systems use Arintra to unlock missed revenue due to coding gaps, documentation issues, and unchallenged denials - achieving 5%+ uplift in revenue, 12%+ reduction in A/R days, and 43%+ fewer denials.

* Epic is a trademark of Epic Systems Corporation

UST and ThinkBio.Ai Forge Strategic Alliance to Accelerate AI-Driven Innovation in Biopharma and Healthcare

UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, has partnered with ThinkBio.Ai®, an AI-powered solutions provider for biopharmaceutical and healthcare organizations. This strategic partnership will empower UST to more efficiently leverage its expertise in digital transformation and advanced solutions to complement ThinkBio.Ai’s innovative AI-powered R&D capabilities. Together, the companies will deliver transformative solutions that accelerate AI transformation journeys and improve outcomes for biopharma and healthcare organizations worldwide.

Leveraging advanced in-house expertise in oncology, immunology, neurology, and cardiology, ThinkBio.Ai has developed a suite of AI-powered solutions to address critical challenges across pharma and biotech preclinical and clinical R&D pipelines. These include data-driven strategies to identify the most optimal treatments, salvaging failed drugs through repurposing or combination therapies, and improving clinical trial success through biomarker-driven patient stratification and digital twin-enabled trial matching.

In addition, ThinkBio.Ai’s AI-enhanced Research Co-pilot (R-COP™) utilizes AI to extend the existing Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) capabilities. Fully interoperable with existing infrastructure, this next-generation tool transforms routine processes into dynamic, insight-driven research operations. These solutions are designed to support biopharma companies and healthcare providers in accelerating innovation and improving patient care.

ThinkBio.Ai’s biological and clinical insights are powered by experts and delivered through the BioThinkHub™ data platform, drawing from expertly curated data and knowledge from proprietary and public data sources.

“This partnership will bring our unique AI and knowledge-based transformation products and solutions for Research and Discovery (R&D) to UST’s focus on digital transformation capabilities and building Gen AI solutions for different industries, including the life science sector. Together, we will build custom ecosystems to help clients and partners stay ahead in a well-regulated, dynamic, and competitive landscape,” said Pradeep Palazhi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, ThinkBio.Ai®.

“We will integrate ThinkBio.Ai’s AI-powered R&D transformation solutions with UST’s strengths in digital transformation and Gen AI across life sciences – pharma, biotech, and medical devices. This strategic collaboration will drive innovation, accelerate time-to-value, and deliver measurable impact across the research and development value chain for our customers,” said Anu Koshy, Life Science cluster leader, UST.

From Genes to Genius: India Launches Landmark Health Biobank

The Phenome India National Biobank, inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) in New Delhi, is a state-of-the-art facility designed to collect and store genomic, lifestyle, and clinical data from 10,000 individuals across India.

This initiative captures India's vast diversity—geographically, ethnically, and socio-economically—and is modeled after global benchmarks like the UK Biobank.

Why It Matters

• Decode complex diseases like diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and rare genetic disorders
• Enable early diagnosis and targeted therapies
• Support AI-driven diagnostics and gene-guided treatments
• Track long-term health trajectories and gene-environment interactions

Scientific and Societal Impact

• Addresses India-specific health challenges such as central obesity in lean individuals
• Enables population-specific health strategies
• Bridges the gap between lab research and real-world application
• Supports India’s leadership in CRISPR, quantum tech, and antimicrobial resistance research

Core Technologies Powering the Biobank

Technology	Purpose	Application
Genomic Sequencing	Decoding individual DNA	Identifies genetic variants linked to diseases like cancer, diabetes, and rare disorders
CRISPR-based Genome Editing	Functional genomics and therapeutic research	Enables gene-function studies and potential gene therapies for conditions like sickle cell anemia
AI & Machine Learning	Pattern recognition and predictive modeling	Powers diagnostics, risk stratification, and personalized treatment recommendations
Big Data Analytics	Integration of multi-modal datasets	Analyzes genomic, clinical, and lifestyle data across 10,000+ individuals
Digital Health Platforms	Real-time data collection and monitoring	Supports longitudinal tracking of health outcomes and lifestyle factors
Biobanking Infrastructure	Secure sample storage and retrieval	Preserves biological specimens (blood, tissue, etc.) under controlled conditions for future research

Research Focus Areas

• Gene-environment interactions
• Population-specific health strategies
• AI-driven diagnostics
• Drug development and antimicrobial resistance

Strategic Integration

• Complementing India’s broader scientific ecosystem
• Leveraging quantum computing for high-throughput data processing
• Collaborating with CSIR, DBT, and industry for translational research
• Implementing ethical frameworks for data governance and privacy

The Phenome India Biobank is not just a data repository—it is a national health intelligence engine poised to transform healthcare and biomedical research in India.

AI-Powered Eye Scan Slashes Diagnosis Time from Weeks to Seconds!

Taiwan-based Acer Medical’s artificial intelligence-assisted diagnostic software and a combination of Intel hardware- and software-based technology, is making eye lesion detection dramatically faster, said Acer Medical, a subsidiary of Acer group in an official blog post.

Traditionally, diagnosing conditions like diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration could take weeks, especially when multiple specialists were involved. Now, thanks to Acer Medical’s AI-assisted diagnostic software running on Intel-backed AI PCs, results can be delivered in seconds.

The system uses high-resolution fundus photography to scan the inner eye, with AI algorithms analyzing images instantly. This eliminates the need for dilation-related eye drops and long wait times. The AI PC processes everything locally, meaning no internet connection is required—making it ideal for remote healthcare.

 

Dr. Hsieh Yi-Ting (foreground) demonstrates detailed eye scans of a patient on his Acer Travelmate Spin P4 AI PC, connected to a high-resolution fundus camera. Thanks to AI algorithms developed using Intel OpenVINO tool kits, the medical team sees results in just 10 seconds. (Image Credit: Intel Corporation)

Results are processed using Acer Medical’s VeriSee DR for diabetic retinopathy and VeriSee Age-related Macular Degeneration (VeriSee AMD) for age-related macular degeneration.

Created by Acer Medical in partnership with medical specialists, the technology is available in 13 countries.

Dr. Hsieh Yi-Ting, a retina specialist at National Taiwan University Hospital, developed the VeriSee DR and VeriSee AMD solutions, which are now available in 13 countries. These tools help doctors prioritize cases and expedite treatment, but they don’t replace medical professionals—rather, they enhance their ability to provide faster, more accurate care.

Acer Medical is a subsidiary of the Acer Group specializing in AI-driven medical diagnostics. They focus on leveraging artificial intelligence, clinical data, and software development to create healthcare solutions. The company's technology has been implemented in over 300 hospitals and clinics, serving an estimated 450,000 patients annually.

Their AI-powered tools, like VeriSee DR and VeriSee AMD, help detect eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration in seconds, significantly reducing diagnosis time.

 
This AI-driven approach is a game-changer for rural healthcare, allowing specialists to diagnose patients far from hospitals. What do you think about AI’s expanding role in medicine? Do comment your opinion below...

ECOSEP and Tata Elxsi Announce Strategic Partnership to Transform Sports Medicine through AI

European College of Sport and Exercise Physicians (ECOSEP) and Tata Elxsi have announced a strategic partnership that aims to revolutionise the field of sports and exercise medicine through combining the research excellence and clinical expertise of ECOSEP with Tata Elxsi’s AI- and machine learning–driven healthcare solutions and technology capabilities.

The partnership will focus on applying artificial intelligence technologies in areas such as advanced diagnostic tools, personalised treatment plans, predictive analytics for injury prevention, and real-time monitoring of athletes' physical conditions.

This innovative collaboration was initiated by Dr. Pakravan, Vice Chair of ECOSEP, and facilitated by Dr. Malliaropoulos, General Secretary. Speaking on behalf of ECOSEP, Prof. Nicola Maffulli, President, stated: “These are exciting times for how technology and medical science can be brought together to transform personalised care in sports. The long-term vision of Tata Elxsi marries with the aim of ECOSEP to develop and maintain 360° care for athletes and physically active individuals. With the power of Tata Elxsi, ECOSEP shall develop comprehensive packages of care which will help to optimise performance and health. This is a unique opportunity for mutual collaboration, marrying disciplines only apparently different, and allowing close interaction of professionals.”

Anup SS, Practice Head – AI and Machine Learning at Tata Elxsi, added: “This collaboration with ECOSEP represents an exciting opportunity to apply AI in ways that directly impact athlete health and performance. By combining clinical insight with advanced data science, we aim to co-create intelligent tools that support early diagnosis, enable real-time decision-making, and personalise care for every athlete. Together, we’re paving the way for a new era in sports medicine—one that is smarter, faster, and more human-centric.”

The collaboration serves as a stepping stone for future interdisciplinary partnerships aimed at expanding the use of AI in sports and musculoskeletal medicine, and both organisations are committed to advancing the field through research, clinical trials, and the development of AI-driven tools that offer athletes and healthcare providers ground-breaking solutions to achieve optimal outcomes.

Tata Elxsi will join the 9th ECOSEP Congress in Düsseldorf in November 2025 to engage with the clinical community, share early insights, and explore opportunities for collaborative research and innovation.

66% HealthTech Leaders Say Their Organizations Generating Business Value From Several Ai Use Cases :KPMG Report

KPMG has unveiled a new report titled “KPMG Global Tech Report: Healthcare Insights” to better understand how healthcare organizations are navigating the complexities of digital transformation, targeting their technology investments, and deriving value.

By examining the perspectives of 122 healthcare technology leaders from around the world (based on a comprehensive survey of 2,450 global technology leaders including chief digital officers, CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, chief AI officers and other executives) the report provides valuable insights into how healthcare systems and organizations are on the precipice of a technology revolution, and are leveraging advanced technologies and tools to streamline operations, reduce costs and, above all, enhance patient experiences.

“Today healthcare technology leaders believe robust regulatory frameworks are a must to ensure the safety and privacy of data in cloud-hosted solutions. They believe this assurance enables them to advance technological innovation with confidence. Prioritizing comprehensive data interoperability frameworks is critical for seamless communication between systems across organizations and jurisdictions. Such connectivity can drive accurate patient care, promote global collaboration in medical research, and strengthen AI model training through access to diverse datasets.” said Lalit Mistry Partner and Co-head, Healthcare Sector, KPMG in India.

Key Findings from the Report:

• 70 per cent of healthcare respondents are satisfied with the amount of value they are getting from their technology investments.
• Compared with a year ago, more healthcare organizations are developing and testing data and analytics strategies or already have a strategic vision for their capabilities
• 70 per cent say cyber security teams are typically involved in the earliest planning stages and have a high degree of influence when it comes to tech investment decision-making
• 66 per cent of healthcare technology leaders say their organizations are generating business value from several AI use cases
• 61 per cent of healthcare technology leaders are currently prioritising AI and Automation as they consider how to invest in technology to support their ambitions.
• 57 per cent admit that flaws in their organizations’ enterprise IT systems disrupt business as usual on a weekly basis.
• Top 3 factors slowing down digital transformation in healthcare includes – Cyber security and privacy concerns, transformation fatigue and immature data management strategies. 
• Healthcare leads all other sectors when it comes to prioritizing and investing in Web3 technology including blockchain and tokenization.

Dehradun HealthTech Startup Caught Attention & Praise of Bill Gates and Other Global Leaders

Indian health-tech startup Sunfox has caught the attention of global leaders, earning praise from Bill Gates

At the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) headquarters, Sunfox Technologies was showcased as one of the five breakthrough healthcare technologies selected for its potential to transform global health. The event, which brought together some of India's most impactful medical innovations, was further marked by the presence of renowned philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

Spandan, a pioneering technology in cardiac monitoring, stood out for its ability to make hospital-grade cardiac care accessible and affordable. In a one-on-one conversation with Bill Gates, Spandan’s impact on reducing cardiac mortality worldwide was acknowledged and praised.

Reflecting on the experience, Rajat Jain, Founder of Sunfox Technologies, stated, “Being at ICMR HQ among India’s most promising healthcare innovations was an incredible honor. Hearing Bill Gates recognize Sunfox Technologies’s potential to change the world was both humbling and energizing. It reinforced our mission to make high-quality cardiac monitoring accessible to millions."

Bill Gates, impressed by the innovation, emphasized the broader impact of India's healthcare advancements, stating:

At Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), I saw how India’s homegrown innovations are saving lives. Fetal monitoring systems are helping mothers and newborns, real-time TB detection is catching cases sooner, and streamlined delivery systems are bringing medicine to remote communities faster. These breakthroughs aren’t just changing health outcomes in India—they have the power to change the world.

At @ICMRDELHI, our chair @BillGates learned about homegrown innovations that are addressing India’s healthcare needs, and have the potential to solve global health challenges.
We remain committed to partnering with the Government of India to support domestic innovations to solve… pic.twitter.com/l3RuRzB2x1

— Gates Foundation India (@BMGFIndia) March 20, 2025

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Sunfox Technologies is poised to address this challenge by placing life-saving technology into the hands of millions. With its innovative approach to affordable, real-time cardiac monitoring, Sunfox Technologies has the power to significantly reduce cardiac-related fatalities and improve healthcare accessibility worldwide.

About Sunfox Technologies:

Sunfox Technologies, founded in 2016 and based in Dehradun, is a leading med-tech company focused on making healthcare accessible and affordable. Specializing in biomedical instrumentation, AI, and IoT-based solutions, its flagship innovation, Spandan, is a portable ECG device that detects over 40 heart abnormalities with 99.7% accuracy. Recognized by the Prime Minister of India and featured on Shark Tank India, Sunfox has impacted thousands of lives by improving cardiac care. With a vision to serve the next billion, the company continues to develop cutting-edge, life-saving medical solutions to bridge healthcare gaps in underserved communities worldwide.

Website: https://sunfox.in/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunfox/

Accenture Invests in Sam Altman and Y Combinator Backed BioTech Startup 1910 Genetics

Accenture has invested in 1910 Genetics, a biotechnology startup backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Y Combinator. This investment aims to revolutionize drug discovery using Al-driven solutions.

Terms of the investment were not disclosed.

For an Al-driven drug discovery, 1910 Genetics uses its proprietory multimodal Al platform called Input-Transform-Output (ITOTM) to enhance drug discovery for both small and large molecule therapies. This platform integrates hundreds of Al models and employs federated learning to optimize molecule design and target identification.

The Accenture–1910 collaboration aims to provide biopharma clients with a powerful Al platform that streamlines the drug discovery process, reduces costs, and improves patient outcomes.

Launched in 2021, the biotech startup, 1910 Genetics, is backed by leading investors including M12 - Microsoft’s Venture Fund, Playground Global, Sam Altman, Y Combinator, FoundersX Ventures, and Scientia Ventures.

The biotech company recently launched CANDID-CNS™, an AI model for predicting blood-brain barrier permeability, which outperforms the industry standard[

The goal of the investment by Accenture is to collaborate with 1910 Genetics wherein Accenture brings its AI and enterprise scalability expertise to the table, while the biotech startup contributes its comprehensive AI platform. Together, they aim to drive innovation in drug discovery and therapeutic development.

Key figures from both companies will join advisory boards, and 1910 Genetics will join Accenture Ventures’ Project Spotlight for emerging technologies. Dr. Petra Jantzer and Tom Lounibos will join the Business Advisory Board of 1910, and Dr. Kailash Swarna, a managing director in Life Sciences at Accenture, and Dr. Cecil Lynch, Biomedical Informatics lead at Accenture, will join the Technology Advisory Board of 1910.

This partnership is expected to significantly impact the biopharma industry by enhancing efficiency and accelerating the development of new therapies.

The global drug discovery market is projected to reach USD 76.5 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.5% from 2023 to 2033. North America currently dominates the market, but Asia-Pacific is expected to see significant growth due to increasing investments in R&D and the expansion of the pharmaceutical industry.

It may be recalled that, in middle of this year, a CNBC report said that the AI-powered healthcare field is on a path that will see medicines completely generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the near future.

In addition to 1910 Genetics, Accenture has made several other strategic investments and collaborations in the drug discovery space. In August, Accenture announced it has invested in Ocean Genomics to accelerate Al-driven drug discovery and the development of personalized medicines. Ocean Genomics uses advanced computational platforms to assist biopharma companies in discovering and developing more effective diagnostics and Therapeutics.

Accenture has partnered with Exscientia, a leading AI-driven drug discovery company, to leverage its AI platform for accelerating the discovery of new therapeutic compounds. Further, Accenture also collaborated with Schrödinger to enhance its computational platform for drug discovery. Schrödinger's platform integrates physics-based computational software to design novel molecules with improved accuracy.

BIRAC and USISPF Partner for Cooperation Between Biotech and Health Tech Co.s, Organizations, and Institutions Across US & India

The BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council), a public sector enterprise established by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) India and Department of Science & Technology (DST) has announced the signing of a letter of intent to collaborate with USISPF (US-India Strategic Partnership Forum) to foster innovation & partnerships between biotech and health tech companies, organizations, and institutions across the US and India.

This collaboration aims to enhance innovation and development in the biotech and health tech sectors by leveraging the strengths and resources of both countries.

The signing ceremony took place in the august presence of Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, DBT, Shri Ajay Sood (IISc), Office of Principal Scientific Advisor, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, and Smt. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson and Founder of Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Ltd.

This partnership will aim to facilitate the exchange of best practices and develop coordinated support measures to enhance the growth of the innovation ecosystem.

The focus will be on fostering knowledge transfer and innovation cooperation between biotech and health tech companies, organizations, and institutions across both

Earlier this month, USISPF announced and hold the 3rd edition of its defence summit — the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X)— in the US to strengthen advanced technology partnerships in defence innovation between the two countries.

Formed in 2017, the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the strategic and economic partnership between the United States and India. It focuses on promoting bilateral trade and investment, fostering innovation, and enhancing collaboration across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and energy.

South India's 1st 5G-Enabled Ambulance Service Launched by Gleneagles Hospital Kengeri and Medulance

Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri proudly announces the launch of South India's first 5G-enabled ambulance service in partnership with Medulance. This innovative deployment marks a significant milestone in emergency medical response, leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide unparalleled patient care.

In the initial phase, five 5G-enabled ambulances is covering the immediate neighbourhood of the hospital, while the second phase will see an additional five ambulances extending coverage to neighbouring districts, further enhancing emergency response capabilities across the region.

The launch event was feature Sri Sri Prakashnath Swamiji, Managing Director, BGS & SJB Group of Institutions; Smt Anita B Haddannavar, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic West Division, Bengaluru City; Anurag Yadav, CEO, Gleneagles India; Biju Nair, CEO, Gleneagles Bengaluru Cluster; Ravjot Singh Arora, Co-founder and COO, Medulance; Pranav Bajaj, Co-founder and CEO, Medulance; and Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and Investor, Medulance.

The 5G-enabled ambulances are equipped with high-speed connectivity from Reliance Jio, enabling real-time, two-way audio and video communication. They also feature cameras and smart devices for high-definition footage transmission, along with Advanced Life Support (ALS) systems for critical medical interventions. These ambulances facilitate real-time streaming of patient health data to distant doctors and transmission of vital signs to emergency room dashboards. Additionally, they incorporate ambulance location tracking for efficient dispatch and navigation, as well as remote monitoring capabilities allowing doctors to guide paramedics.

With faster response times due to real-time data relay and monitoring, the ambulances reduce response times to less than 4 minutes in corporate settings. Patients benefit from real-time clinical assessment and immediate medical intervention during transit, along with remote assistance from doctors, enabling treatment during the commute. Effective use of the 'Golden Hour' and 'Platinum 10 Minutes' for critical care significantly improves survival rates in emergencies like heart attacks and strokes. Moreover, these ambulances enhance healthcare access in rural and remote areas and facilitate seamless data sharing with hospitals to prepare for incoming patients. The higher bandwidth and ultra-low latency of the 5G network ensure efficient data transfer, while integration with corporate wellness programs helps reduce healthcare costs and improve employee health outcomes.

Pranav Bajaj, Co-founder and CEO, Medulance, commented on the partnership, "Today, we mark a significant milestone in revolutionising emergency medical response. Our 5G-enabled ambulances, in partnership with Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, will set a new standard for patient care. With cutting-edge technology, we're bridging the gap between emergency and treatment, ensuring timely and informed care. This innovation is a testament to our commitment to saving lives and shaping the future of healthcare.”

Ravjot Singh Arora, Co-founder and COO, Medulance said,”The launch of 5G-enabled ambulances is a dream come true for us. We've always envisioned a future where technology meets healthcare to save lives. With this innovation, we're empowering paramedics, doctors, and patients to connect in real-time, making emergency response more efficient and effective. We're proud to be at the forefront of this revolution in healthcare."

Anurag Yadav, CEO, Gleneagles India, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to introduce the first 5G-enabled ambulance service in South India. This initiative is a part of our larger strategy to revolutionise emergency medical services across all Gleneagles hospitals, ensuring that we provide the highest level of care to our patients."

Biju Nair, CEO, Gleneagles Bengaluru Cluster, emphasised the hospital's commitment to excellence in emergency care, saying, "Achieving excellence in emergency care is a cornerstone of our mission at Gleneagles Bengaluru. The introduction of 5G-enabled ambulances is significantly enhancing our ability to provide immediate, high-quality medical intervention, setting a new standard for emergency response in the region."

This pioneering step reaffirms Gleneagles BGS Hospital's commitment to integrating advanced technology in healthcare, ensuring better outcomes for patients and setting new benchmarks in emergency medical services.

The Gleneagles Hospitals Bengaluru Cluster, an eminent duo of healthcare institutions that stand as pillars of medical excellence and compassionate care in the heart of Bengaluru. As integral parts of Gleneagles Healthcare India, aligned with the global reach and expertise of IHH Healthcare, these hospitals are a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional patient care, driven by a dedication to medical excellence, innovation, and patient-centricity.

Medulance is an innovative and first-of-its-kind integrated emergency healthcare service provider in the country that offers fast and reliable first-point medical attention. With an aim to save lives, Medulance responds to medical emergencies promptly, if and when they arise, in a manner that is quick, professional, and at par with international standards. Using its efficient dispatch technology and 5G-enabled smart ambulances, Medulance has been able to bring down the average response time from 45 minutes to under 11 minutes in some areas of Delhi. The platform can assist with over 6,000 calls daily. It also manages medical equipment and other consumables required in the ambulances along with the manpower (drivers and paramedics). Medulance strategically stations its ambulances at different locations identified based on emergency data. This data is recorded on parameters like the performance of the ambulance (including response time, calls per ambulance, dispatch time, etc) and the patient details such as Covid/non-Covid and other emergency condition necessities. To streamline the process and increase efficiency, such data is captured and analyzed daily.

The company has secured $3 million in Series A funding, led by Alkemi Growth Capital in 2024. It has received recognition for its innovative efforts, including the prestigious ‘National Start-up Award’ in 2022 and ‘Most Innovative 5G Use Case Deployed of the Year’ at the India Mobile Congress 2023 affirming the company’s impact and leadership in the healthcare sector.

Nvidia Unveils BioNeMo, A GenAI Platform Designed for Drug Discovery and Healthcare Innovations

NVIDIA has recently unveiled — BioNeMo, a generative AI platform designed for drug discovery. It offers a range of tools to simplify and accelerate the training of models using your own data, and it facilitates the scaling of model deployment for drug discovery applications. The platform provides state-of-the-art biomolecular models for tasks such as 3D protein structure prediction, de novo protein and small molecule generation, property predictions, and molecular docking.

NVIDIA says that its latest BioNeMo foundation models can analyze DNA sequences, predict how proteins will change shape in response to a drug molecule, and determine a cell’s function based on its RNA.

BioNeMo offers pretrained models, such as MegaMolBART and MoFlow for chemistry, and ESM-1 and ESM-2 for protein embeddings. BioNeMo also allows researchers to customize and deploy generative and predictive biomolecular AI models at scale.

This generative AI platform also simplifies and speeds up training models using your own data. For example, generative AI can analyze and visualize large amounts of data to identify emerging trends, key players, and potential opportunities. This can help R&D teams and innovation-driven companies gain insights that can inform research priorities and investment strategies.

BioNeMo also features a turnkey solution accessible through a web interface or cloud APIs, allowing users to access pretrained models for interactive inference, visualization, and experimentation. It's designed to provide seamless and scalable AI services, with the flexibility to experiment and build enterprise-grade generative AI workflows.

For those interested in the technical development and deployment of AI models, BioNeMo offers training services optimized for drug discovery, with support for various models, data loaders, training workflows, and validation processes. The platform can be accessed through the NVIDIA Base Command Platform for NVIDIA DGX Cloud.

 

Resources for BioNeMo Framework

Additionally, BioNeMo's ecosystem includes documentation, tutorials, and community support to help users explore its capabilities further.

NVIDIA's BioNeMo platform is at the forefront of a collaboration with Cognizant to enhance drug discovery for pharmaceutical clients. This partnership leverages generative AI to tackle complex challenges in the life sciences industry, aiming to improve productivity and speed up the development of new treatments.

Cognizant brings its AI and industry expertise to the table, utilizing NVIDIA's pretrained, industry-specific generative AI models to provide clients with a suite of model-making services. These services are designed to reduce manual intervention for data analysis and eliminate the need for extensive coding and infrastructure maintenance.

Furthermore, NVIDIA and Microsoft have expanded their collaboration in healthcare innovation, which includes the application of generative AI technology with the NVIDIA BioNeMo platform to address drug discovery challenges. This collaboration seeks to enhance productivity in development processes and hasten the delivery of new treatments to the market.

Cognizant also plans to establish an NVIDIA AI Center of Excellence this year to continue innovating with NVIDIA technologies across various domains, including manufacturing and automotive engineering. This center will focus on leveraging generative AI to bolster productivity, streamline costs, and expedite innovation.

Besides, BioNeMo models will soon be accessible on AWS HealthOmics, a purpose-built service that helps healthcare and life sciences organizations store, query and analyze biological data including DNA and RNA.

NVIDIA says that Cadence and Iambic Therapeutics are among more than 100 companies adopting NVIDIA AI to propel computer-aided drug discovery and generative AI.

In a First of Its Kind, Samsung Galaxy's Feature Which Detects Signs of Sleep Apnea Gets US FDA Authorization

Samsung Electronics announced that the sleep apnea feature¹ on the Samsung Health Monitor app² has received De Novo authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This feature, which detects signs of sleep apnea using a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and phone, was the first of its kind to be authorized by the FDA following previous approval by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), announced last October in Korea.

The sleep apnea feature enables users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period, a common and chronic sleep condition that often goes undiagnosed and untreated. To utilize the feature, users can simply track their sleep twice for more than four hours within a ten-day period.

OSA causes a person to stop breathing while sleeping and can often result in disruptions in oxygen supply, decreased sleep quality and increased daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea can compound the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia and stroke. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), roughly 25% of men and 10% of women in the U.S. experience OSA. The new feature on the Samsung Health Monitor app is expected to help more people proactively detect moderate or severe forms of OSA, and as a result of the detection seek medical care to reduce the possibility of health-related complications.

Good health is strongly linked to good sleep. Sleep helps bodies and minds recover and empowers people to wake up refreshed and ready for the day ahead. The quality of sleep people get every night has a significant impact on their physical and mental well-being, relationships, performance and more. Samsung recognizes the foundational role that sleep serves in people’s health and well-being by focusing on three key elements for better sleep: understanding sleep patterns, building better habits and creating a sleep-friendly environment.

With the sleep apnea feature, Samsung is taking the next step in its ongoing commitment to provide Galaxy users with the best possible sleep tools to improve their sleep health habits. The feature will be available on the Galaxy Watch series in the U.S. via the Samsung Health Monitor app in the third quarter.³

1 The Sleep Apnea Feature is an over-the-counter (OTC) software-only, mobile medical application operating on a compatible Samsung Galaxy Watch and phone. This feature is intended to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in the form of significant breathing disruptions in adult users 22 years and older, over a two-night monitoring period. It is intended for on-demand use. This feature is not intended for users who have previously been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Users should not use this feature to replace traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified clinician. The data provided by this device is also not intended to assist clinicians in diagnosing sleep disorders.
2 Availability may vary by market or device. Due to market restrictions in obtaining approval/registration as a Software as a Medical Device (SaMD), it only works on watches and phones purchased in the markets where service is currently available (however, service may be restricted when users travel to non-service markets).
3 Availability may vary by market, carrier, model, or paired phone.

Biotech Firm Eyestem Partners with RetinAI to Innovate Geographic Atrophy Clinical Research Using State-of-the-Art AI Technology

Eyestem Research, a Bangalore-based biotechnology company specialising in cell therapy approaches, has entered a strategic partnership with Ikerian AG and RetinAI Inc. US (“RetinAI”), a pioneer in clinical and imaging data management software and advanced AI-driven analytics for ophthalmology.

Leveraging RetinAI’s Discovery® platform and AI tools will enable Eyestem to advance in its mission to revolutionise treatment for geographic atrophy with its innovative cell therapy, Eyecyte-RPE™.

“This collaboration with RetinAI marks a significant milestone in our journey,” said Dr Jogin Desai, Founder and CEO of Eyestem. “Their sophisticated AI tools and the RetinAI Discovery® platform integrate perfectly with our vision, potentially shortening the timelines for our clinical trials and enhancing the accuracy of our analyses. This is not just a partnership; it’s a confluence of high-end biotech innovation and cutting-edge artificial intelligence aiming to rewrite the narrative for patients affected by geographic atrophy worldwide.”

Dr. Carlos Ciller, CEO of RetinAI, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are excited to partner with Eyestem, known for its forward-thinking approach to biotechnology and cell therapy. Our AI-driven Discovery® platform is poised to significantly accelerate research and provide enhanced insights into disease progression and outcomes. Together, we’re confident that this synergy will not only enrich insights in the development of novel treatments but also manifest in delivering life-altering solutions faster to individuals affected by retinal diseases globally.”

Geographic atrophy, a late-stage form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a significant health concern worldwide. Currently, dry AMD affects 200 million individuals globally, contributing to irreversible vision loss. Compounded by an aging population, the prevalence of this serious eye disease is escalating at an alarming rate.

Eyestem is taking a significant step forward by preparing to initiate its Phase I/IIa clinical trials for Eyecyte-RPE™. This multi-centre, dose escalation, and expansion trial aims to assess Eyecyte-RPE™’s safety and efficacy for geographic atrophy. This trial will benefit from RetinAI’s Discovery® platform, which will centralise data management and image analysis for the study. Moreover, RetinAI’s advanced segmentation model will be leveraged for the identification and quantification of retinal biomarkers in geographic atrophy. This automated analysis will provide real-time insights on clinical endpoints, speeding up critical decision-making.

About RetinAI

Established in 2017, Ikerian AG (formerly RetinAI Medical AG) and its subsidiary, RetinAI US Inc., are transforming clinical and pharmaceutical research with cutting-edge machine learning and computer vision. Their collaboration with healthcare experts enhances data analysis for improved research and clinical trials. RetinAI's platform's extensive list of AI models, including for major ophthalmic disorders like Geographic Atrophy, enable detailed analysis of large datasets, offering critical insights into patient demographics and biomarker profiles. This innovation not only expedites informed decision-making but also shifts the healthcare paradigm from reactive to proactive. Discover more of the solutions for pharma here: https://www.retinai.com/solutions/life-sciences-pharma and on their website: www.retinai.com.

About Eyestem

Based in Bangalore and Delaware, Eyestem Research is a clinical-stage biotech company founded by an experienced team in pharmaceuticals, ophthalmology, and cell biology. It's recognised as a top innovator nationwide, earning accolades from Economic Times in 2022. Eyestem has received grants from the Indian Department of Biotechnology and has been celebrated as a successful startup at government events. Backed by global investors, including Switzerland and South Africa, it's supported by prestigious venture capital firms Kotak Investment Advisors and Endiya Partners. Its recent funding came from three major Indian pharmaceutical companies: Alkem Laboratories, NATCO, and Biological E.

CAHOTECH 2023 Returns with Its 8th Ed. to Help Startups Build Robust Healthcare Technologies

• This edition will boost startups with new health-tech products in association with hospitals
• Dr. Indu Bhushan, Mr. Som Mittal, Dr. M Srinivas, Mr Kiran Anandampillai, Prof. Govindan Rangarajan and many more will join in conversations and work together with doctors and technology experts to encourage new ideas

As the convergence of technology and healthcare assumes a central role in patient care management and risk reduction, CAHO (Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations) returns with the 8th edition of CAHOTECH. CAHO is an association of healthcare institutions, diagnostics centres and individuals committed to enhancing patient safety and quality of healthcare delivery. Its objective is to cultivate a strong, mutually beneficial relationship between technology developers, innovators, and stakeholders in the healthcare delivery ecosystem.

The 8th edition of CAHOTECH is scheduled for October 7th at IIT Delhi, under the visionary leadership of Padma Shree Awardee Dr. Harsh Mahajan. Leading up to this event is the eagerly anticipated PitchFest for healthcare startups slated for October 6th. Here, healthcare start-ups will present their ground-breaking concepts to a distinguished panel of healthcare leaders, CEOs, CXOs, and more. With over 500 delegates expected to attend the main conference, including healthcare luminaries and policymakers, CAHOTECH promises to be a hub of insightful discussions and transformative exchanges.

This initiative paves the way for healthcare that is not only safer and more affordable but also characterized by greater equity. CAHOTECH has emerged as the go-to platform for healthcare providers seeking insights into recent advancements and preparing for future trends in IT, medical equipment, machinery, and processes.

Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President CAHO, expressed, “At CAHO, we believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to transform healthcare for the better. CAHOTECH, our flagship event, is a testament to our commitment to enhancing patient safety, improving healthcare quality, and embracing the potential of cutting-edge technology. We, as a collaborative force comprising healthcare institutions, diagnostics centres, and dedicated individuals, are thrilled to introduce this innovative platform. Our core purpose is crystal clear: to nurture innovation that can revolutionize healthcare, to raise awareness about the latest advancements, and to champion the early adoption of transformative healthcare technology.”

Hospitals are invited to showcase their early technology adoption or innovations, with these presentations accessible to institutions and individuals nationwide. This platform serves to inspire and guide other hospitals in their technology adoption journeys. Noteworthy contributions are recognized, and the standout hospitals are shortlisted to present at the main conference, where they receive acclaim and awards.

This year, the Hospital Innovations Showcase is set to take place virtually on September 30th, spotlighting the top three innovations invited to present at the main conference. The event unites eminent leaders from the healthcare and technology sectors on a shared digital platform. Esteemed luminaries in the healthcare arena, including Dr. Girdhar Gyani, Dr. Nagendra Swamy S C, Dr Pawan Kapoor, Dr. A Govindanrajan, Dr. Ritu Mittal Garg, Dr Naveen Chitkara, Dr. Girish Srinivasan, Mr Sameer Mehta among others, will actively participate in discussions and collaborations. They will collaborate with technology visionaries like Dr. Muthu Singharam, Mr. Som Mittal, Dr. Uma Nambiar, Dr Vidur Mahajan and numerous others, cultivating an atmosphere conducive to innovation and transformative discussions.

Since 2016, CAHO has been committed to organizing the annual CAHOTECH event, providing a significant platform for healthcare providers to explore disruptive technological advancements and visionary trends. The event's primary mission is to create awareness, drive innovation, and facilitate early adoption for a healthcare landscape that is not only safer but also more affordable and equitable.

HealthTech Startup Peping Raises $400K Led By Better Capital

The fresh fund will be used to advance Peping’s technology infrastructure, team expansion and allocate resources for creative experiments

Bangalore based startup Peping, India’s first digital healthcare clinic platform focussing on Gut health has announced that it has secured its latest investment round of 400K USD led by Better Capital as the lead investor and other angel investors who have joined the funding round include Kunal Shah, Sandeep Kumar Dinodiya, Ganesh Balakrishnan, and Shubham Mishra.

The newly acquired capital will be allocated to various critical areas of the company's growth. A significant portion will be dedicated to advancing the product and technology infrastructure. Additionally, it will also work towards building a team with deep industry knowledge, and allocate resources for creative experiments and expanding our acquisition channels.

Peping is building a digital clinic that delivers solutions for managing dietary and lifestyle factors that contribute to conditions such as IBS, GERD, Gastric, Gastritis and Fatty liver. The company aims to transform the delivery of this crucial aspect of treatment by implementing personalised and tailored care plans that examine various aspects, including lifestyle and test results, to diagnose and target the underlying causes of health problems.

Commenting on the announcement Chirag Maheshwari, Co-Founder of Peping said, “At Peping, we recognize that managing digestive health concerns can be a challenging and burdensome experience. That's why our mission is to simplify and alleviate this process for you. Through our personalised approach, a dedicated team of healthcare experts, and state-of-the-art technology platform, we are committed to delivering the utmost quality of care for gastrointestinal (GI) issues, making your journey towards better digestive health as smooth and stress-free as possible. The patient relief rate for functional gastric disorders in India stands at a low 5%. Our ambitious goal is to elevate this rate to surpass 30% and establish a global benchmark in the field. I want to thank all our investors who believe in us and are instrumental in driving our mission forward.”

More than 30% of Indians experience Gastrointestinal disorders, with 67% of them grappling with conditions like IBS and GERD. This translates to a staggering 140 million individuals in India living with chronic gut health issues. The surge in gut health issues represents a contemporary epidemic, primarily stemming from our sedentary lifestyles and suboptimal dietary choices, imposing significant strain on our digestive systems. This generation faces an elevated risk of developing severe gastric disorders, which can profoundly impact overall quality of life. Peping aspires to establish itself as the preferred healthcare provider for addressing a wide range of gastric concerns, offering holistic solutions for a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Moreover, the modern sedentary lifestyle serves as a precursor to more serious health concerns, such as heart disorders, obesity, and hypertension, which progressively hinder daily bodily functions and ultimately lead to more significant lifestyle-related problems.

“Gut health is one of the most widespread health issues in India and it requires a team with an undivided focus on creating a truly full stack solution. Chirag and Prateek came to the same conclusion through their own experience with close family members. We are glad to be founding stage partners in their journey of building Peping into a premier gut care brand over the next decade”, said Vaibhav Domkundwar of Better Capital, an early backer of breakout companies across sectors.

Founded in 2022 by Chirag Maheshwari and Prateek Maheshwari, Peping understand that dealing with digestive health issues can be overwhelming and challenging, which is why the company strives to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. They are dedicated to developing a comprehensive solution for managing dietary and lifestyle factors that contribute to conditions such as IBS, GERD, and Fatty liver. With a personalised approach, a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, and an advanced technology platform, it aims to provide the highest quality care possible for its customers. 

Established in 2022, Peping is India's pioneering digital healthcare clinic, with a strong focus on Gut Health. Our mission revolves around creating a dietary and lifestyle management framework to address conditions such as IBS, GERD, Fatty liver, and more.

Peping was co-founded by Chirag Maheshwari, NSIT '14, who brings his valuable experience as a Founding Team Member and leader in Product/Supply Chain at Flatheads, with previous key Product roles at renowned companies like Nykaa, Shopclues, and Momoe. Prateek Maheshwari, NSIT '15, boasts an impressive background, having managed a $6 million Micro-lending portfolio at Milaap and spearheaded Partnerships for Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services at Capital Float (now Axio) and Finomena.