EMBL scientists have developed an artificial intelligence-powered system called MAGIC that automatically recognizes and labels cells with micronuclei – small DNA-containing structures associated with chromosomal abnormalities and cancer[1][2][3]. Cancer often begins by disrupting genetic instructions, allowing cells to grow uncontrollably[1]. MAGIC works like a molecular laser game: an automated microscope first takes images of cells, then an algorithm trained on manually labeled data identifies cells with micronuclei, and the laser labels them with a photoconvertible dye that changes the color of the fluorescence[1][2][3]. The labeled live cells are then separated by methods such as flow cytometry and analyzed in detail, for example by genome sequencing[2][3]. The system automates the previously laborious, time-consuming and error-prone detection of such cells[1][3]. It can analyze almost 100,000 cells in less than a day[1][3]. Chromosomal abnormalities drive aggressive cancers associated with patient death, metastasis, recurrence, chemotherapy resistance, and rapid tumor growth[2][3]. The study was created in collaboration with several EMBL teams and external partners, such as DKFZ[1][3].