How CellKey’s AI-Powered Biomarker Analysis is Advancing Early Cancer Detection

CellKey, a South Korean startup, is transforming cancer diagnostics with its unique use of artificial intelligence (AI) and biomarker analysis. The company’s technology focuses on glycoproteins—proteins with attached carbohydrates—that play key roles in cell functions like signaling and immune response. 

Changes in these glycoproteins can indicate cancer development, and CellKey’s AI-driven approach is designed to detect these changes early, when treatment is often more effective.

Unlike traditional methods that rely on single biomarkers, which may not always catch cancer in its early stages, CellKey’s platform analyzes multiple biomarkers at once. This approach boosts accuracy while also providing a deeper understanding of each tumor’s unique characteristics. The result is a more precise diagnosis and the potential for personalized treatment plans.

We spoke with CellKey’s CEO, Wayne Lee where he talked about about their recent business expansion plans and their vision for how this technology could improve cancer diagnostics around the world.

High-throughput omics data analysis is central to CellKey’s platform. Can you share more about the specific AI models or algorithms that power this platform? How do these models enhance data reliability and speed in biomarker and drug discovery? 

We have developed an omics data analysis platform that utilizes massive parallel processing on the cloud, enabling the platform to accelerate the analysis of large proteomics datasets by up to 100 times compared to conventional solutions.

Additionally, CellKey has created a machine learning model and MLOps pipeline designed to collect, classify, and train on proteomics data for the discovery of novel proteins and biomarker candidates.

Our high-throughput platform and MLOps pipeline deliver ultrafast speed and high accuracy, addressing the challenges faced by biopharmaceutical companies and scientific researchers in managing and analyzing ever-growing omics data.

Given CellKey’s focus on cancer diagnostics, what impact do you hope CellKey’s AI-driven precision medicine platform will have on early cancer detection and patient outcomes globally?

CellKey has been developing cancer diagnostic biomarkers and early detection technologies. We are collaborating with Harvard Medical School to create a rapid, on-site cancer diagnostic device capable of detecting cancer in less than an hour. Our goal is to distribute this technology and device globally, addressing health equity challenges, particularly in developing regions with limited access to healthcare.

What are the biggest challenges in developing AI models for precision medicine, especially regarding accuracy and ethical considerations? How is CellKey addressing these challenges to ensure its solutions are both effective and trustworthy?

Collecting blood samples from cancer patients has never been easy and remains one of the biggest challenges. Since training our AI model requires a large volume of highly controlled patient data, we are constantly seeking more carefully curated data and samples from hospitals and clinics. To sustain our research, our bioinformatics and AI teams have been gathering cancer data from public databases, enabling us to leverage these datasets to develop a more robust AI model.

The recent Korean SaaS Showcase in Dubai allowed CellKey and other Korean startups to connect with key stakeholders in the Middle East. From a business perspective, what were some of the main takeaways from this event, and how has it influenced CellKey’s expansion plans in the MENA region?

CellKey previously had no exposure to the MENA region, but we have always aspired to commercialize our technologies and devices in this market, particularly in the UAE. Through this Korean government-sponsored SaaS event, we gained valuable insights into the market and had the opportunity to meet with key stakeholders in the UAE. We have already conducted several meetings with the appropriate authorities and will actively seek partnership opportunities with local governments, investors, and companies.

CellKey has been exploring the Middle Eastern market as part of its global expansion. What factors have led to this interest, and what strategies are you implementing to position CellKey effectively in this region?

The MENA region has been undergoing a significant digital transformation, particularly in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. As part of this initiative, governments are modernizing their healthcare systems and adopting new technologies. We see these opportunities and aim to accelerate this transformation by introducing CellKey’s innovative technologies to the region.

With the UAE’s SaaS market projected to grow at a high rate, what role do you envision for CellKey’s AI-driven precision medicine solutions within this growth? Are there specific local partnerships or collaborations that you believe could accelerate your entry and impact?

CellKey’s AI-powered platform is uniquely innovative and has the potential to significantly accelerate the research and development of new biopharmaceuticals and biomarkers. We aim to partner with local biotech companies, hospitals, and medical schools to enhance the efficiency of time-consuming R&D processes and the quality of research outcomes.

For a biotech startup like CellKey, adapting to different international regulatory environments can be challenging. How do you approach regulatory compliance in new regions like MENA, and what have you learned from these experiences?

Each region and country has its own regulatory requirements and standards. Our initial goal is to secure regulatory approvals for our cancer diagnostic device in South Korea and the USA. Building on these experiences and certifications, we plan to approach various government entities in the MENA region with robust clinical evidence, aiming to collaborate with them to expedite regulatory approval processes and introduce our life-saving technologies to the market.

Given the rising global interest in precision medicine, what trends in this field are you watching closely, and how does CellKey plan to stay ahead of them?

In the precision medicine space, many companies and research communities are seeking innovative technologies in the multiomics domain. By analyzing human DNA, RNA, proteins, and glycoproteins, it becomes possible to personalize treatments, increasing the chances of saving lives and improving patient outcomes. To lead this transformative effort, we leverage AI, automation, and cloud technologies to analyze highly complex, massive datasets with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

Looking ahead, what are the next steps for CellKey in terms of product development, funding, and immediate geographic expansion?

We have been highly focused on monetizing our technologies, such as our precision medicine platform, to discover novel biomarkers that can effectively detect cancer at an early stage. These biomarkers are currently being integrated into our rapid on-site cancer test device for commercialization. To achieve this, we aim to secure funding and establish partnerships with local strategic collaborators to advance this initiative. After our commercialization efforts in South Korea and the USA, we are particularly interested in expanding into the MENA region

As a founder, what advice would you give to other tech-driven healthcare startups looking to expand internationally, particularly in navigating diverse cultural and market landscapes?

Based on my experiences, a biotech startup like CellKey, seeking regulatory approvals internationally, needs to establish a solid technological foundation and robust clinical evidence. Alongside this, conducting extensive research to understand local markets and regulations is essential. Embracing cultural sensitivity is also critical, as every culture has unique patient behaviors and expectations when it comes to building trust.

Establishing strategic local partnerships will be a key driver of success in the market. The right partner, who can serve as a valuable advocate for your technology and company, can help navigate the local healthcare ecosystem and build trust with governments, customers, and other stakeholders.

Lastly, patience and persistence are crucial for overcoming challenges and unforeseen obstacles. With consistent adaptability and determination, you can achieve long-term success.

By pursuing partnerships, regulatory compliance, and research in regions like the MENA, CellKey plans to bring life-saving technology to new markets, addressing critical healthcare challenges worldwide. With its approach and technology, CellKey is advancing cancer detection and providing a model for other tech-driven healthcare startups exploring international growth.