Bridging science & tech: Experts converge to unveil AI-driven innovations in multi-omics and healthcare

In a world driven by technological innovation, the convergence of multi-omics technologies with artificial intelligence represents a groundbreaking leap in healthcare. Aligned with this vision, the School of Biosciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and School of Engineering and Technology at Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram have been at the forefront in hosting an International Conference on “Multi-Omics and Artificial Intelligence for Net Generation Health Solutions”.      

The two-day event focused on cutting-edge developments in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and their integration with AI technologies like machine learning and deep learning. It sought to provide a global platform for researchers, healthcare professionals, AI experts, and industry leaders to collaborate, share knowledge, and drive innovation in this transformative field. The aim was also to foster interdisciplinary partnerships among academia, industry, and healthcare sectors while inspiring actionable solutions to advance global healthcare.

The grand event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp which was followed by a soulful rendition of Ganesh Vandana by Misti Yadav, a student of the School of Biosciences. A touching video tribute was played in honour of Founder Chairman Dr. Stya Paul.

Welcoming the esteemed guests,  Dr. Vyas M S, Dean, School of Biosciences, ASU highlighted the conference’s mission to explore the transformative potential of multi-omics and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. As the convener of the conference, he emphasised, “Visionary leadership has been the cornerstone of this conference and how commitment to research, and insightful guidance played a crucial role in making this event a reality. The conference is a testament to Apeejay’s core values and its dedication to advancing cutting-edge research with real-world impact.”

Subsequently, Prof. (Dr.) Vijay Vir Singh, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, ASU, shared his opening address as he mentioned about the integration of AI in healthcare, explaining how AI can process diverse health-related data to develop next-generation therapies. While AI accelerates research, he stressed that “human expertise remains irreplaceable”. He also underlined the need for affordable solutions in healthcare.

A special message from Mrs Sushma Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, was read out by Prof. Sanjay Ahirwal, Dean, School of Journalism Mass communication, ASU. In her message she mentioned, “As the Chancellor, I feel privileged to address you at the opening of this prestigious conference. Apeejay Stya University has always been committed to advancing the quality of education in India, focusing not just on academic excellence, but also on holistic learning and character development. This conference perfectly embodies that commitment, demonstrating our dedication to fostering multi-disciplinary collaborations, pioneering research, and the dissemination of knowledge that can address the critical health challenges facing the world today. I am particularly proud to share that our university, particularly the School of Biosciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and the School of Engineering and Technology, has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), into health-related research. Our efforts in bioinformatics, oncology, personalised medicine, drug manufacturing, chemical analysis, and other related fields have been both continuous and impactful, with a strong emphasis on the intersection of technology and healthcare.”At Apeejay Stya University, we believe in the ethos of “service-before-self” and our commitment to this principle drives us to continuously explore the latest advancements in multi-omics and AI, always with the aim of improving healthcare for society at large.”

Additionally, Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, extended her regards for a successful event via a video address. She mentioned, “This conference is a manifestation of our unwavering commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, innovative research, and knowledge sharing. It stands as a testament to ASU’s dedication to addressing pressing global challenges by converging scientific expertise and technological advancements. The theme of this conference is both timely and transformative. The integration of multiomics technologies encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics with artificial intelligence is redefining the landscape of healthcare. We are entering an era where complex health issues can be tackled with personalised treatments, predictive diagnostics, and optimised therapeutic interventions.” 

She also said, “I am particularly excited to see how this platform will inspire our young researchers and students. You are the torch bearers of tomorrow’s breakthroughs.Your passion, creativity, and dedication will shape the future of health care innovation.” 

Keynote sessions on collaborative step toward the future of medicine

As the first keynote speaker of the day and the conference, Dr. Ashok Rattan MD, MAMS, Common Wealth, he discussed the significance of multi-omics, DNA, RNA, and protein mutations in disease detection. He emphasised prudent antibiotic use to combat resistance and improve healthcare outcomes.

Dr. Loick P. Kojom Foko, Senior Lecturer & Consultant, University of Douala, Cameroon, provided a detailed overview of malaria, covering vaccine development, diagnosis, and mortality rates. He highlighted how multi-omics and AI are reshaping drug discovery and treatment strategies.

Dr. Chandrashekaran Siddamadappa, Chairman and MD, Vipragen Biosciences Pvt Ltd, Mysore, Karnataka, explained deep learning’s role in drug discovery, comparing traditional and AI-driven methods.

Discussing advancements in research and AI integration

The post-lunch session, introduced by Vir Vijay Singh, featured the unveiling of the book on “Multi-Omics and Artificial Intelligence for Net Generation Health Solutions”.

Following which, Dr. Prabuddha K Kundu, Cofounder & Managing Director, Premas Biotech, Gurgaon, shared insights on overcoming challenges and realising the full potential of oral biologics: focusing on delivery mechanisms, stability and efficacy.   

Subsequently, Dr. Joshua LaBaer Professor and Executive Director, Biodesign Institute, School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University USA, addressed the audience on the theme “Multiple in-solution protein array for high throughput qualitative, early profiling of humoral response”. He  said, “Immune activity is altered in a wide range of diseases including infections, autoimmune diseases and cancer. The appearance of antibodies specific to disease can be among the first biomarkers that alert us about the need for intervention.”       

Dr. Arun Wiita Associate Professor Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre, University of California, San Francisco, USA, and Dr. Alan J Stewart, Associate Professor, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, UK, shed light on some of the key aspects of how to integrate multi-omics data for AI-driven healthcare. 

The day one of the international conference concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Anupama Diwan, Dean, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ASU. 

The second day of “International Conference on “Multi-Omics and Artificial Intelligence for Net Generation Health Solutions” featured Dr. Hemant K Gautam Chief Scientist, Microbial Biotechnology, CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi, India, who delivered the keynote address on “Engineering Smart Antimicrobials: A multi-omics, AI and nanotechnology-driven approach to combating antimicrobial resistance.    

The event was also presided over by esteemed speakers including  Dr. Anurag Varshney Vice President & Head – Drug Discovery and Development, Patanjali Research Foundation, India; and Dr. Paveen Kumar Reddy Deputy General Manager – Regulatory Affairs Lupin Limited (Biotech Division).  

The day also featured poster presentations by researchers and students. The conference successfully underscored the role of AI and multi-omics in revolutionising healthcare, bringing together experts and researchers committed to shaping the future of medicine.