Researchers at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center have developed an innovative AI tool, BIOPREVENT, aimed at enhancing risk assessment for chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in patients undergoing stem cell and bone marrow transplants. Chronic GVHD can lead to severe complications and even death, often showing no early symptoms. Led by Dr. Sophie Paczesny and her team, the study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation utilized machine learning to analyze immune biomarkers and clinical data from over 1,300 transplant recipients. This tool enables clinicians to identify patients at higher risk for chronic GVHD, allowing for earlier intervention. The model distinguishes between low- and high-risk groups, delivering personalized risk estimates through a free, web-based application. Although still pending clinical trial validation, BIOPREVENT signifies a vital shift toward precision medicine in transplant care, offering hope for improved patient outcomes post-transplant. This can alleviate patient anxiety by predicting potential risks sooner.
