An AI-Based, User-Friendly Software Accurately Predicts Diseases

IntelliGenes, a first-of-its-kind software created at Rutgers Health, combines artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) approaches to measure the significance of specific genomic biomarkers to help predict diseases in individuals, according to its developers. A study published in Bioinformatics explains how IntelliGenes can be utilized by a wide range of users to analyze multigenomic and clinical data.

Zeeshan Ahmed, PhD, lead author of the study and a faculty member at Rutgers Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research (IFH), said there currently are no AI or ML tools available to investigate and interpret the complete human genome, especially for nonexperts. Ahmed and members of his Rutgers lab designed IntelliGenes so anyone can use the platform, including students or those without strong knowledge of bioinformatics techniques or access to high-performing computers.

How does IntelliGenes work?

The software combines conventional statistical methods with cutting-edge ML algorithms to produce personalized patient predictions and a visual representation of the biomarkers significant to disease prediction. 

In another study, published in Scientific Reports, the researchers applied IntelliGenes to discover novel biomarkers and predict cardiovascular disease with high accuracy. “There is huge potential in the convergence of datasets and the staggering developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning,” said Ahmed, who also is an assistant professor of medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

“IntelliGenes can support personalized early detection of common and rare diseases in individuals, as well as open avenues for broader research ultimately leading to new interventions and treatments.”

- This press release was originally published on Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey website