New grant to predict progression of multiple sclerosis using AI
Congratulations to Dr Dongang Wang and Dr Geng Zhan, recipients of the MS Australia Incubator grant, an award designed to test novel concepts in Multiple Sclerosis research. This project is one of the many that have been enabled by the MSBase Imaging Repository (MSBIR), the largest database of MS scans in the world, which started out at the Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney.
Pictured from left to right: Dr Geng Zhan and Dr Dongang Wang
Dr Dongang Wang, Chief Investigator and Dr Geng Zhan Principal Investigator are building on Dr Geng’s primary PhD research into using large language models to predict MS disease progression.
The progression of disability in MS is complex and difficult to predict, particularly over short timeframes. There is still a lack of biological signs (biomarkers) that can accurately predict the progression of MS, which hinders the implementation of individualised MS treatment plans.
This research aims to develop a tool that can be easily implemented to facilitate early tailored treatment and improve long-term clinical outcomes.
By integrating cutting-edge AI and data from MSBIR, Dr Wang and his team aim to improve the precision with which clinicians can predict MS progression in individuals. This project will work with the Computational Neuroimaging research team and in collaboration with the Sydney Neuroimaging Analysis Centre.
With MS on the rise and early diagnosis crucial, these projects will investigate a range of ways to improve outcomes for those living with the disease, hopefully leading to full-scale projects in the future.
MS Australia Incubator Grants
Researchers awarded incubator grants aim to undertake pioneering projects with a strong emphasis on fresh 'outside the box' ideas, addressing a spectrum of unmet needs in MS.
Dr Julia Morahan, MS Australia Head of Research, says the incubator grants are an important piece of the research funding strategy to accelerate further significant breakthroughs in our knowledge of MS. The announcement was made in a media release released by MS Australia.