Leica Biosystems is enhancing its collaboration with AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo to further AI-driven research in lung cancer biomarkers, specifically targeting the TROP2 biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer.
The expanded partnership aims to develop an immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay and an image analysis algorithm to evaluate the TROP2 Normalized Membrane Ratio (NMR). This initiative builds on AstraZeneca’s existing computational pathology algorithm, Quantitative Continuous Scoring (QCS), and leverages Leica's advanced digital pathology tools. The goal is to create an end-to-end solution that assesses both membrane and cytoplasmic expression of the biomarker, potentially enhancing the identification of patients who may benefit from targeted therapies.
As the field of pathology evolves, there is a clear shift towards digital workflows that utilize whole-slide imaging and AI-enhanced algorithms. This collaboration aims to accelerate the development and global deployment of these technologies, ultimately contributing to more precise and scalable diagnostic approaches in precision medicine.
Leica's innovative tools, such as the BOND RX research stainer and the Aperio HALO AP image management system, will facilitate the rapid creation of the TROP2 NMR algorithm, which will be available through the Aperio AI Store. This partnership exemplifies the industry's move towards integrated digital ecosystems, combining expertise from multiple sectors to tackle complex challenges in biomarker research.