PORTFOLIO

IMAI MedTech is an ETH spin-off and marks a significant leap forward in tissue diagnostics, introducing an automated 3D histology platform that integrates robotics, electrical engineering and advanced imaging. The name cleverly combines 'IM' for imaging, 'AI' for artificial intelligence and coincides with the Japanese word ‘ima’, meaning 'now', emphasizing its innovative approach. This technology aims to overcome the limitations of traditional 2D histology by enabling detailed, three-dimensional examinations of tissues, thus improving diagnostic accuracy and enabling early cancer diagnosis in the future.
Using artificial intelligence and robotics, IMAI not only promises to improve the accuracy of cancer diagnoses, but also to accelerate the diagnostic process, potentially leading to better patient outcomes through timely and targeted treatments. In addition, its advanced 3D imaging capabilities offer new insights into disease mechanisms, contributing to medical research and the development of new therapies.
Scheduled to be integrated into the clinical setting after rigorous validation phases, IMAI represents a transformative advancement in medical diagnostics, aiming to improve both patient care and research outcomes through its cutting-edge technology.

Within the scope of the InnoBooster project, we finalized the first 3D histology prototypes and deployed them in four laboratories (three external and one in-house). Early user feedback played a critical role in shaping the fully automated version, ready for the next phase of deployment and testing. To support pathologists and researchers, we developed and evaluated various image quantification algorithms. A mock-up of the image analysis tool was also introduced to selected users, who provided valuable input on essential, desirable, and missing features. This direct collaboration with early adopter labs and partners has been instrumental in aligning the products with real-world needs. Preliminary results of a pilot study strongly suggest the potential of IMAI’s 3D workflow to enhance visualization and quantification of cancer invasion in tissue samples. Simultaneously, we addressed regulatory and compliance requirements for both the hardware and software, leading to design improvements that ensure smoother integration in the future. The next milestones focus on gathering more validation data and continuing our progress toward regulatory readiness.