Korean AI healthcare company Lunit is teaming up with AstraZeneca to develop artificial intelligence tools that could transform lung cancer diagnosis by predicting genetic mutations from tissue samples.
The partnership centers on Lunit’s AI technology that analyzes microscope slides to identify potential mutations in non-small cell lung cancer, particularly targeting epidermal growth factor receptor mutations. This approach could significantly reduce the time needed for genomic testing, which currently delays many patients from starting treatment.
AstraZeneca’s head of global oncology diagnostics noted that the technology could optimize diagnostic workflows for lung cancer patients. Meanwhile, Lunit’s CEO highlighted how the screening tool could improve access to targeted therapies.
The collaboration reflects growing interest in AI-powered pathology as healthcare providers seek faster diagnostic tools. However, the technology still requires extensive validation before deployment in clinical settings.
Neither company disclosed financial terms of the partnership. The deal marks another step in Lunit’s expansion beyond its home market, where it competes with other AI diagnostic startups targeting the multibillion-dollar cancer testing industry.
The companies plan to explore additional applications for detecting other molecular biomarkers through microscope slide analysis.
