GenScan AI founder Mary-Brenda Akoda has developed GenMRI, an AI system that cuts MRI scan times by up to 90%. The technology could transform medical imaging without requiring new equipment. You’ll learn how it works and why this matters for healthcare.
How GenMRI Works
GenMRI uses AI to create high-quality diagnostic images from less scan data. A 20-minute MRI could take as little as two minutes, and an hour-long scan might be reduced to six minutes. This speed helps hospitals manage patient backlogs, reduce waiting times and lower costs—especially for vulnerable groups like children or the elderly who often need sedation during scans.
Testing and Validation
The system was built on over 15,000 cardiac MRI images and tested on an additional 7,700. It also underwent testing with 1,125 knee MRI images it had never seen before, achieving up to 75% faster scans. Akoda said the technology was validated through a blinded assessment with a UK radiologist, who found GenMRI images to be diagnostically equivalent to conventional scans.
Why This Matters for Healthcare
GenMRI doesn’t replace traditional MRI machines but enhances them. It generates accurate images from partial data, which means hospitals can use existing scanners more efficiently. This could be a game-changer in regions where medical infrastructure is limited or underfunded. You might wonder how this affects your access to care—this tech could make imaging faster and more available for many people.
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Personal Inspiration Behind the Tech
Akoda’s inspiration came from personal experience. She recounted how an elderly relative suffered a stroke and couldn’t get timely imaging due to long wait times. The delay led to severe complications and ultimately death. She said this experience, combined with her background in AI and engineering, drove her to create a solution that could prevent similar tragedies.
Future Plans and Challenges
Akoda has been working with clinical partners in the UK, US, Kenya and Nigeria to secure regulatory approvals and conduct pilot programs. She’s also seeking additional funding and partnerships to scale the technology. But there are questions about how widely it can be adopted, especially in low-resource settings where even existing MRI machines are scarce.
Expert Opinions and Recognition
Dr. Adebayo Adeyemi, a radiologist in Lagos, said the concept is promising but emphasized the need for rigorous testing. “AI can be a powerful tool, but it’s only as good as the data it’s trained on,” he said. “We need to ensure that these systems are reliable across different populations and medical conditions.”
Akoda’s work has already drawn attention. She won the Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation, recognizing her contributions to medical AI. As she moves toward launch dates, the world will be watching to see if this AI-powered MRI system can deliver on its bold claims. For now, one thing is clear: Akoda’s GenMRI could be a significant step forward in making medical imaging faster, more accessible and more efficient.
