The partnership will see the distribution of PathAI-developed research-use-only algorithms through Roche’s uPath enterprise software
The Roche Tower, headquarters of Hoffmann-La Roche in Basel. (Credit: Taxiarchos228/Wikipedia)
Swiss healthcare company Roche has partnered with PathAI to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technology solutions for pathology.
As part of the partnership, the two companies will jointly develop an embedded image analysis workflow for pathologists.
By developing the workflow, the companies intend to facilitate an access to PathAI image analysis algorithms within NAVIFY Digital Pathology, which is the cloud version of Roche’s uPath enterprise software.
The uPath enterprise software is CE-IVD marked for in-vitro diagnostic use and is currently available for research use only (RUO) in the US.
Roche stated that the partnership with PathAI is made possible through its Digital Pathology Open Environment. The open environment enables access to third-party AI-powered pathology solutions alongside Roche’s AI-based image analysis tools.
The development and distribution agreement with PathAI expands the availability of digital tools through the Roche open environment.
The agreement also enables PathAI to become one of the first to distribute its AI-powered solutions through a third party platform.
Roche Diagnostics CEO Thomas Schinecker said: “Working together, Roche and PathAI will bring the latest leading technologies to pathologists through our digital pathology solution.
“Expanded access to a menu of high medical value digital diagnostic tools will further ensure that patients are accurately diagnosed and receive the most effective treatment available.”
Under the agreement, PathAI-developed research-use-only (RUO) algorithms will initially be distributed by Roche through NAVIFY Digital Pathology for multiple cancer types.
The innovations to be jointly made by the two companies will be aimed at supporting healthcare companies’ companion diagnostic and drug development programmes.
According to Roche, whole slide imaging combined with advanced AI-based image analysis tools holds the potential to transform the practice of pathology.
Pathologists will be able to derive novel diagnostic insights from tissue samples, by interpreting whole slide images in digital pathology through the use of AI and deep learning methods.
PathAI CEO Dr. Andy Beck said: “This collaboration brings together all of the components required to deliver and commercialise a differentiated AI-based digital pathology medical device including assay, scanner, image management system and algorithm.
“We believe this partnership will unlock the potential for digital pathology in the companion diagnostics setting, offering a differentiated service to biopharma sponsors and ultimately new opportunities to improve patient outcomes.”