The roundtable featured Prof. Eric Topol, Prof. Martin Hrabě de Angelis (Member and Spokesperson of the Executive Board (acting) at Helmholtz Munich), Prof. Fabian Theis (Head of the Computational Health Center at Helmholtz Munich), Prof. Ewa Szczurek (Co-Director of the Institute for AI for Health at Helmholtz Munich), and Prof. Julia Schnabel (Director of Institute of Machine Learning in Biomedical Imaging at Helmholtz Munich), and was moderated by Dr. Annalisa Marsico (Research Group Head at the Computational Health Center).
Exploring the Virtual Human
The discussion focused on the concept of the Virtual Human, exploring the integration of multiscale layers of datasets – including imaging, clinical, -omics, and perturbation-screen, molecular data – with AI, to develop extensive models of the human body. At Helmholtz Munich, the Virtual Human concept is currently under active development as an integrative multiscale foundational model designed to holistically represent patient journeys across different biological and clinical levels. Engaging exchanges among the panelists addressed opportunities such as leveraging biobank data, considering whether to pursue a single comprehensive model or multiple specialized models, and identifying areas where explainable and transparent AI is particularly important. The conversation generated strong engagement among a diverse audience of researchers and clinicians.
The Role of AI and Foundation Models
Another focus was the use of foundation models – including generative and agentic AI – by integrating complex datasets, identifying patterns, and generating new insights from incomplete or heterogeneous data sources. Closely linked to the advancement of personalized medicine, these approaches are expected to also significantly enhance predictive medicine capabilities in healthcare.
A Unique Environment for Research
Helmholtz Munich provides a unique environment for this type of research, combining advanced technology, extensive datasets, the M1 – Munich Medical Alliance, and the German Centers for Health Research in a distinctive combination. Prof. Martin Hrabě de Angelis, Member and Spokesperson of the Executive Board, emphasized that the expertise of the Helmholtz Munich’s researchers, together with its collaborative ecosystem, makes the center an ideal place to advance comprehensive digital human models.
The session concluded with a Q&A, followed by Eric Topol joining a trainee lunch to engage early career scientists and inspire thought-provoking discussions on the topic and related areas.
More information on the Bavarian Conference on AI in Medicine.
