Singapore researchers develop AI tool to predict liver cancer recurrence

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

21 JULY 2025

SINGAPORE RESEARCHERS DEVELOP AI TOOL TO PREDICT LIVER CANCER RECURRENCE
The TIMES score, featured on the cover of Nature, can help identify patients at risk months earlier, offering hope for improved treatment and survival rates.

SINGAPORE – Scientists from A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (A*STAR IMCB) and Singapore General Hospital (SGH) developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered scoring system capable of predicting the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer. Named the Tumour Immune Microenvironment Spatial (TIMES) score, this study was recently featured as the cover article in the scientific journal Nature—a recognition that underscores the global significance and impact of the research.

The TIMES score analyses the precise spatial distribution of immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells and five specific genes within liver tumour tissues. By identifying these spatial patterns, TIMES predicts recurrence risk with approximately 82% accuracy, outperforming existing staging methods. This means doctors can pinpoint patients likely to experience a recurrence soon after surgery, allowing for earlier and more targeted treatment.Dr Joe Yeong, Principal Investigator at A*STAR IMCB and Principal Investigator, Department Anatomical Pathology, SGH, noted, “In Singapore, up to 70% of liver cancer patients experience recurrence within five years. TIMES offers a significant advancement in predicting these outcomes, enabling clinicians to intervene at the earliest possible stage. This can significantly enhance patient care and improve survival outcomes.” Dr Yeong also holds the position of Director of ImmunoPathology, SingHealth Duke-NUS Pathology Academic Clinical Programme.

Ms Denise Goh, Senior Research Officer at A*STAR IMCB and co-first author of the study, added, “The TIMES scoring system transforms routine tissue slides into powerful predictive tools. By identifying patients at higher risk of relapse, we can proactively alter treatment strategies and monitoring, potentially saving more lives.”

The researchers validated the TIMES system using samples from 231 patients across five hospitals. They have now made the technology accessible through a free web portal for research use, with plans underway to integrate TIMES into routine clinical workflows.

The team is planning further validation studies at SGH and the National Cancer Centre Singapore, scheduled to commence later this year. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with diagnostic partners to develop TIMES into a clinically approved diagnostic test kit.

About the study: “Spatial immune scoring system predicts hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence.” Nature 640, 1031–1041 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08668-x

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For media queries and clarifications, please contact:

Owen Sia
Corporate Communications
Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)
Tel: +65 6517 7866
Email: owen_sia@hq.a-star.edu.sg

Carol Ang
Communications Department
Singapore General Hospital
Tel: +65 9845 5354
Email: carol.ang@sgh.com.sg

About A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (A*STAR IMCB)

The A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology is a premier research institute whose mission is to harness biology for transformational bio-therapeutics and diagnostics. With a strong emphasis on collaboration with stakeholders across the ecosystem in Singapore, A*STAR IMCB aims to achieve scientific excellence and continues to nurture the next generation of scientists in order to create growth and enhance lives. For more information about IMCB, please visit www.a-star.edu.sg/imcb.

About the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore's lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. As a Science and Technology Organisation, A*STAR bridges the gap between academia and industry. Our research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore, and enhances lives by improving societal outcomes in healthcare, urban living, and sustainability. A*STAR plays a key role in nurturing scientific talent and leaders for the wider research community and industry. A*STAR’s R&D activities span biomedical sciences to physical sciences and engineering, with research entities primarily located in Biopolis and Fusionopolis. For ongoing news, visit www.a-star.edu.sg.

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About Singapore General Hospital

Singapore General Hospital, established in 1821, is the largest tertiary hospital in Singapore and ranked among the world’s best. It provides the most comprehensive patient-centred care with over 50 clinical specialties on its campus. As an Academic Medical Centre, it takes pride in training healthcare professionals and conducting cutting edge research to meet evolving needs of the nation as well as the region. Driven by a strong sense of purpose, SGH is committed to give of its best to heal and bring hope, as it has for over 200 years. For more information, please visit www.sgh.com.sg.