Paul Conyngham, owner of an AI company, has turned to artificial intelligence to help his rescue dog Rosie, who was diagnosed with mast cell cancer about a year ago. Rosie, now nearly eight years old, has undergone surgeries, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, but the cancer continues to grow. Frustrated, Conyngham decided to use his access to AI tools to find a treatment tailored to Rosie's specific genetic mutation.
Using ChatGPT in November 2024, Conyngham devised a plan to sequence Rosie's DNA. A veterinarian took samples from the tumor and healthy tissue during surgery, and a research institute extracted the DNA. The University of New South Wales sequenced it, producing 350 gigabytes of data. Conyngham then used AI software to identify a mutation linked to uncontrolled cell growth.
Dr. Kate Michie, a structural biologist at the University of New South Wales, reviewed Conyngham's work and expressed surprise at his success. She noted that a layperson without formal scientific training had achieved remarkable results, calling it an inspiring reflection of current technological capabilities. However, experts caution that the science is complex and that identifying a mutation is only the first step toward effective treatment.
Conyngham hopes the discovery will lead to a treatment that extends Rosie's life. He said he felt compelled to try everything possible, even without a background in oncology or genetics. The story highlights the potential of AI to empower individuals in personalized medicine, though experts emphasize the need for further research and validation.
