A comprehensive foundation model for generalizable cytogenetics in precision oncology with CHROMA
摘要
Automated cytogenomic analysis has long been limited by narrow task scope, high annotation demands, and poor robustness to real-world complexity. Here, we introduce CHROMA, the first single-chromosome foundation model for cytogenomics that enables comprehensive, cell-level detection of a wide spectrum of chromosomal abnormalities—including both common and ultra-rare types—in a single, unified framework. Pre-trained on over 4 million chromosomal images from more than 84,000 specimens using self-supervised learning, CHROMA achieves robust and comprehensive detection of numerical and structural abnormalities across diverse classes, dramatically reducing expert annotation workload by 40% through efficient label utilization. The model maintains state-of-the-art accuracy even under highly imbalanced data and challenging imaging conditions, supporting reliable deployment as a risk-aware screening and triage tool, particularly in settings with limited expert availability. An integrated risk-control strategy further ensures safe application by automatically flagging uncertain or rare cases for expert review. By bridging foundational AI advances with real-world clinical needs, CHROMA paves the way for scalable, accessible, and precise cytogenomic analysis in both advanced and underserved healthcare environments.