AI Adoption Case Study: learn how NIX is integrating AI-driven algorithms into fertilisation treatment processes
techUK’s AI adoption collection of case studies showcases examples of how organisations are Putting AI into Action, either through the adoption of AI models within their organisations, or by developing AI tools that can be leveraged by others.
By shining a light on these use cases, techUK hopes to demonstrate examples of best practice from across sectors and from organisations of all sizes.
NIX is a software development company that has been tasked with integrating AI-driven algorithms into fertilisation treatment processes.
A health-tech startup aimed to disrupt the industry of vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment through AI-driven embryo selection. Their method uses AI-powered image recognition algorithms to identify embryos with the highest implantation potential, enhancing decision-making for clinicians and patients.
NIX was chosen as a technology partner to transform their method and prototype into a market-ready product, dealing with data engineering, AI, and ML.
1. Challenge:
Despite the fact that in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been around for forty years, success rates still need to be improved. Even women below 35 only have a roughly 30% chance to conceive using IVF treatment. As a result, female patients spend thousands of dollars through multiple IVF cycles with little guarantees. In fact, in the last ten years, there haven’t been any significant advancements in fertilization treatments. We will examine the deficiencies in current IVF treatments and delve into how technological advancements can address them, illustrated through a NIX case study.
2. Solution
Working side by side with the client’s subject matter experts and researchers, we enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of AI algorithms, identified image classification models, and deployed the models on the TensorFlow Serving framework. This system is perfectly tuned for serving trained models, scalable API, and auto-allocation of hardware resources. The models were trained on a dataset of timelapse videos of human embryos developing.
In just 3 months, NIX developed an MVP of a cloud-based SaaS application for fertilization clinics, delivering three key components:
- AI engine for embryo classification, prediction, and decision support
- Scalable, multi-tenant backend for data orchestration and processing
- Intuitive user interface to reduce errors, standardise procedures, and offer data-driven insights through reports and dashboards.
3. Barriers:
AI Engine
The main challenge for an engineering team was to develop an AI engine capable of classifying embryo images to compute precise predictions. By sourcing 250 GB of clinic data and collaborating with industry experts, the team improved the accuracy of AI algorithms to correctly identify and classify medical images. As a result, the number of embryos for implantation dropped by half, from 3-4 to 1-2 per standard IVF cycle.
Data security
The healthcare industry is a highly regulated field that demands full compliance with data protection laws. By relying on Golang technology, tech specialists built a robust solution that prioritizes data protection. Ideal for high-load applications, Golang offers the scalability that such systems require to accommodate a growing demand. Unique technical and business expertise allowed the tech experts to create a well-performing and secure platform for IVF clinics in compliance with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
4. Impact:
A sophisticated application was developed, with advanced AI features and an intuitive interface that aids clinicians in making data-driven decisions. By sourcing data such as images and time-lapse videos from multiple clinics, they could rely on a large pool of real-life data. The solution can accurately predict the viability of each embryo and double the chances for a successful implantation.
Furthermore, the platform performs 50 times faster and provides 48% more precise results compared to an average embryologist. Working together, clinicians and AI systems can reduce the physical and mental toll of IVF treatment and facilitate a more transparent and smooth process for patients.
Patients benefits:
Although AI in IVF is a relatively new field of study and requires a lot more research, its potential is truly exciting. By increasing the success rates of each treatment, AI solutions aid patients in reducing the negative side effects. Additionally, more precise treatments will result in fewer attempts, which will save patients’ health and substantial amounts of money.
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Contact the team
Usman Ikhlaq
Usman Ikhlaq
Usman joined techUK in January 2024 as Programme Manager for Artificial Intelligence.
He leads techUK’s AI Adoption programme, supporting members of all sizes and sectors in adopting AI at scale. His work involves identifying barriers to adoption, exploring solutions, and helping to unlock AI’s transformative potential, particularly its benefits for people, the economy, society, and the planet. He is also committed to advancing the UK’s AI sector and ensuring the UK remains a global leader in AI by working closely with techUK members, the UK Government, regulators, and devolved and local authorities.
Since joining techUK, Usman has delivered a regular drumbeat of activity to engage members and advance techUK's AI programme. This has included two campaign weeks, the creation of the AI Adoption Hub (now the AI Hub), the AI Leader's Event Series, the Putting AI into Action webinar series and the Industrial AI sprint campaign.
Before joining techUK, Usman worked as a policy, regulatory and government/public affairs professional in the advertising sector. He has also worked in sales, marketing, and FinTech.
Usman holds an MSc from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), a GDL and LLB from BPP Law School, and a BA from Queen Mary University of London.
When he isn’t working, Usman enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He also has a keen interest in running, reading and travelling.
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