Meet the Researcher: Matthew Huang

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Matthew Huang is an MSc student in the Department of Biochemistry at Western University. He is conducting BCC-funded breast cancer research under the mentorship of Dr. Pingzhao Hu at Western University.

What specific areas of breast cancer research are you currently focusing on, and why are they important?

I am currently focusing on developing new approaches for the improved prognosis of breast cancer using cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This is crucial for effective treatment, yet breast cancer is a complex disease with variations that are challenging to understand through traditional methods. My project aims to leverage AI to improve breast cancer prognosis and treatment decisions.

For this goal, I am using powerful computer models to analyze routinely used and affordable images of breast cancer tissue samples. By training these computer models on a large dataset of tissue images and genetic information, we will teach them to predict genetic mutations in breast cancer. In the future, this information could enhance clinicians’ ability to personalize treatment plans for each patient.

Through my research, I aim to improve the accuracy of breast cancer prognosis. By harnessing AI and analyzing existing cost-effective images, I aspire to deepen our understanding of the genetic aspects of breast cancer and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

How do you see the future of breast cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment evolving through research?

Being at the intersection of computer science and biochemistry, I am at the forefront of applying artificial intelligence (AI) in medical health sciences. As AI continues to advance and researchers develop better algorithms, the speed of diagnosis and the ability to tailor treatments to individuals will significantly improve.

For instance, current language models can generate pathology reports within minutes, whereas it can currently take up to 10 days for a pathologist to complete. This rapid turnaround not only accelerates the diagnostic process but also allows for quicker, more personalized treatment plans.

In the future, I envision AI playing a crucial role in breast cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Enhanced AI models will be able to analyze vast amounts of data from various sources, leading to earlier detection of cancer, more accurate diagnoses, and highly personalized treatment plans. This integration of AI in medical research will ultimately improve patient outcomes and transform the landscape of breast cancer care.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve encountered in your breast cancer research, and how you’ve overcome them?

One of the significant challenges I’ve encountered in my research is the rapid advancement of AI, with new and better-performing algorithms being published continuously. To overcome this obstacle, I stay informed about the latest research and advancements in AI technologies. I continuously deepen my understanding of the subject area, ensuring that I am always up to date with cutting-edge developments. This proactive approach allows me to incorporate the most advanced and effective AI methods into my research, ensuring that my work remains relevant and impactful.

What advice do you have for young individuals interested in pursuing a career in breast cancer research?

My advice would be not to limit yourself to basic biology and the traditional concept of research in a lab. I encourage young individuals interested in breast cancer research to stay up to date with current research progress. Connect with researchers to understand how different specializations contribute to breast cancer research and discover what you are truly passionate about.

Whether your interest lies in medical and health sciences, computer science, or engineering, there are many ways to be involved. It’s important to explore various fields and find what excites you. Embrace interdisciplinary approaches, as advances in breast cancer research often come from the collaboration of diverse expertise.

In your opinion, what role can public awareness and advocacy play in advancing breast cancer research and treatment?

I believe public awareness and advocacy are vital for advancing research and treatment. They help secure essential funding for innovative research initiatives and ensure that policy makers prioritize breast cancer in health agendas. Furthermore, advocacy empowers patients and their families, fostering a supportive community that drives progress in both research and care.
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