Elucid has obtained FDA 510(k) clearance for its PlaqueIQ software, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tool designed for the detection of arterial plaque build-up, a critical factor in cardiovascular disease (CVD). This clearance marks a significant advancement in non-invasive cardiovascular risk assessment, potentially improving the early identification and management of patients at risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic strokes.
Cardiovascular disease, often driven by plaque accumulation and rupture in arteries (atherosclerosis), remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. While traditional CVD risk assessments consider factors like age, diet, and lifestyle, research indicates that the characteristics and quantity of arterial plaque are strong predictors of future cardiovascular events. PlaqueIQ addresses this by offering a detailed analysis of plaque composition.
PlaqueIQ leverages AI to quantify and classify plaque morphology based on histological data. The software analyzes images obtained from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to generate 3D visualizations of the heart's blood vessels. Elucid's AI algorithms reduce motion and calcium blooming artifacts, creating interactive images that allow physicians to visualize plaque at the vessel level.
A key feature of PlaqueIQ is its ability to non-invasively quantify and characterize non-calcified plaque and its components, including the lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC). According to Elucid, this capability provides physicians with critical insights into high-risk plaques, which are major drivers of heart attack and stroke. "We know that plaque is the key contributor to these devastating events, and, specifically, high-risk plaque components, but you can’t treat what you can’t see," said Elucid CEO Kelly Huang. "With PlaqueIQ, physicians can gain new and insightful histology-based information to help better understand plaque composition and get ahead of the disease."
Elucid is currently beta-testing PlaqueIQ and plans a limited release later in the year. The company is also pursuing an indication for the software in fractional flow reserve measurement for assessing coronary blockages and ischemia. In November 2023, Elucid completed an $80 million Series C funding round to support PlaqueIQ's development.
Industry analysts predict substantial growth in the AI healthcare sector, with GlobalData forecasting an $18.8 billion valuation for AI platforms in healthcare by 2027.
