#Japan #Mayo Clinic #Smart Opinion #Smaopi #Minato-ku

Smart Opinion Enters AI Model Experiment with Mayo Clinic

Smart Opinion, Inc., a Tokyo-based startup focused on driving innovation in healthcare, has embarked on a significant journey by joining the ranks of a premier initiative aimed at revolutionizing breast cancer detection. Recently, the company announced its selection for Phase 2 of the HealthTech Gateway program, a collaborative effort between the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Mayo Clinic Platform_Accelerate. This program leverages one of the largest patient data networks in the U.S. and aims to propel startups that harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

The mission of Smart Opinion is to expand the capabilities of its AI-driven breast cancer screening tool, known as Smaopi. With a commitment to enhancing early detection of breast cancer, Smaopi utilizes advanced machine learning techniques to analyze ultrasound images for the identification of malignant growths. Through the HealthTech Gateway program, Smart Opinion seeks to gain invaluable insights and accelerate the integration of its technology into clinical practice in the U.S.

Program Breakdown

Initially, the program commenced with Phase 1, where 16 Japanese companies, including Smart Opinion, participated in a 10-week foundational course. This phase included educational workshops designed to familiarize participants with the U.S. healthcare market, fostering discussions with potential investors and building essential networks within the Mayo Clinic ecosystem. The successful culmination of Phase 1 led to a rigorous selection process, after which only five companies, including Smart Opinion, were chosen for the more advanced Phase 2.

Now set to unfold over 30 weeks, Phase 2 will offer unparalleled access to Mayo Clinic's medical data platform, which contains de-identified information from millions of patients. This phase is structured to support AI model development, validation, and the refinement of product offerings. Participants will engage deeply with clinical experts, receiving one-on-one mentoring, actionable feedback, and opportunities to pitch their innovations directly to the Minnesota investor community, thereby enhancing their visibility and impact in the market.

Aiming for Impact

Smart Opinion's decision to pursue participation in this program is deeply strategic. The company envisions leveraging the vast expertise of Mayo Clinic specialists—a renowned leader in patient care—to address regulatory, clinical, technical, and business challenges inherent in the path to market. With validation of its AI technology, termed METIS Eye, Smart Opinion plans to set a new standard in breast cancer screening processes within the U.S. healthcare landscape.

The ambitious aim of this collaboration is not just commercial success but also a heartfelt mission to save lives. Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent diseases affecting women worldwide, with early detection being paramount in improving treatment outcomes. Smart Opinion, supported by Mayo Clinic's expertise and resources, is dedicated to advancing women's health and enhancing the overall quality of care.

About Smart Opinion

Established in 2019, Smart Opinion aligns itself closely with the ideals of improving women's health and redefining early cancer detection. The company's focus on patient-centered care is threaded throughout its service offerings, which include a suite of support mechanisms designed to empower patients through digital and IT technologies. Collaborative efforts with Mayo Clinic represent a significant leap forward in Smart Opinion’s quest to innovate and make a difference in the lives of countless women.

Through the backing of incisive healthcare professionals and advanced technology, Smart Opinion aims to carve a niche in a competitive market while ensuring that the benefits of its innovations extend to those most in need.