IBM is harnessing its AI-driven health prediction capabilities to address the challenges of Huntington's disease. In collaboration with the CHDI Foundation, the technology company has developed an artificial intelligence model that predicts the onset of symptoms in patients and assesses the speed of their progression.
The AI was trained using MRI brain scans, specifically analyzing signals from white matter—a relatively underexplored area in brain research. This innovative approach allows the model to estimate changes in cognitive and motor performance over time. Currently, existing knowledge indicates that symptoms typically appear between ages 30 and 50, but it lacks information on which specific symptoms will emerge and how they will develop.
Researchers express optimism that a single MRI scan could yield more precise predictions regarding functional decline across various domains. While this model may not directly enhance treatment options, it can help Huntington's disease patients better prepare for upcoming changes. Additionally, it may assist scientists in selecting candidates for clinical trials based on their disease stages, ultimately contributing to the pursuit of long-term solutions.