nVasive: An AI and Machine Learning Approach for Metastasis Prediction Using nVasive and Microgravity

Cancer is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, with metastasis responsible for 90% of cancer-related deaths. Predicting metastatic behavior remains a critical challenge in oncology. Encapsulate’s nVasive is an automated tumor-on-a-chip (TOC) platform that grows patient-derived microtumors ex vivo, preserving their native tumor microenvironment. By enabling high-throughput imaging and real-time monitoring, nVasive provides a unique approach to studying cancer invasion dynamics under both normal gravity and microgravity (µG) conditions. µG offers an unparalleled environment for metastasis research by minimizing external mechanical forces, allowing cancer cells to retain native phenotypic and genotypic properties. Our proprietary biochip uses degradable hydrogels to track tumor invasion as cells migrate into a secondary chamber, where their motility and behavior are analyzed. Our SpaceX CRS-30 experiments validated nVasive’s capability to distinguish metastatic from non-metastatic cells in µG, revealing measurable differences in motility and genetic responses. Following our 2020-2023 ISS National Lab project with Space Tango (ISSNL CASIS #: GA2019-7750), we secured approval for two additional NASA missions and now seek funding to expand nVasive through: 1. AI-Driven Image Processing and Clinical Integration: Develop machine learning algorithms to analyze tumor motility patterns and correlate µG-derived invasion data with patient clinical and genetic profiles for real-time metastasis risk assessment. 2. Metastasis Simulation: Build computational models to simulate metastasis in µG, offering predictive insights for oncology research and experimental design. By combining µG experimentation, AI-driven analytics, and biophysical modeling, nVasive aims to become the first clinical diagnostic tool for metastasis prediction, applicable as both a lab diagnostic test (LDT) for precision oncology and a pharmaceutical platform for metastasis-focused drug discovery.