SIME Diagnostics Unveils Promising AI Lung Maturity Test for Premature Infants

SIME Diagnostics, a medical technology firm based in the UK, has recently completed a pivotal clinical study assessing its AI-driven Lung Maturity Test (LMT) tailored for late-preterm newborns, specifically those born between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. The results were shared by a team from the Mayo Clinic at the recent Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) conference held in Honolulu on April 27, 2025.

Addressing Urgent Needs in Neonatal Care

Every year, approximately 300,000 babies are born within the late-preterm range in the United States. These infants are at a significantly heightened risk of experiencing respiratory distress, one of the leading causes of neonatal complications and prolonged hospital stays. Traditional methods often require medical teams to adopt a “wait and see” approach, leading to increased NICU admissions, delayed treatments, and an overall spike in healthcare costs. The AI-powered Lung Maturity Test was developed as an objective screening tool to facilitate the timely identification of infants who may require immediate intervention, thus potentially transforming neonatal care protocols.

A Study That Promises Faster, Smarter Diagnostics

Conducted at the Mayo Clinic, this clinical study involved 207 infants who were beyond 30 weeks of gestation. Using a point-of-care device created by SIME Diagnostics, samples of gastric aspirate were analyzed to evaluate the biomarkers related to lung maturity. The findings indicated that the LMT successfully predicted which infants would require extended respiratory support and helped identify those whose needs could resolve within a mere 6 hours, showcasing the test’s predictive power.

How the AI-Powered LMT Works

This innovative platform combines a point-of-care device with a single-use cartridge designed to promptly analyze samples without the necessity for reagents. Its functionality hinges on the rapid measurement of critical lung biochemistry biomarkers such as lecithin and sphingomyelin. The balance of these substances provides insights into surfactant levels critical for effective oxygen exchange in developing lungs.

Enhancing Respiratory Care in Neonatology

With the capability to deliver results within the first hour of life, the LMT assists clinicians in making informed decisions regarding respiratory support for at-risk infants, ensuring early intervention and reducing unnecessary treatments. Its design is especially tailored for intensive care environments, assisting healthcare professionals in optimizing respiratory care in the neonatal unit. Ongoing research and clinical studies are set to refine its application, potentially extending its use across various hospital settings.

About SIME Diagnostics

Founded to address critical gaps in medical diagnostics, SIME Diagnostics specializes in developing AI-enhanced platforms for acute and intensive care solutions. The Lung Maturity Test marks the company’s debut product, presently under review by the FDA, while further innovations in the realm of adult respiratory diagnostics are also underway. Healthcare professionals can learn more about SIME Diagnostics by visiting simedx.com or following their updates on LinkedIn.

Acknowledgements

It’s notable that Mayo Clinic has a financial interest in the technology mentioned. Any revenues generated will support its commitment to patient care, education, and research, reinforcing the essential collaborative nature of advancements in healthcare technology.

Conclusion

In essence, the results from SIME Diagnostics' study highlight a significant leap in the early identification and management of respiratory issues in neonatology, driven by cutting-edge AI technology. This innovative approach not only aims to alleviate the burden of neonatal respiratory distress but also underscores the integration of machine learning in healthcare, offering hope for improved outcomes in newborn intensive care.