npj Digital Medicine, Published online: 11 December 2025; doi:10.1038/s41746-025-02198-6

AI-driven virtual cell models in preclinical research: technical pathways, validation mechanisms, and clinical translation potential

This study demonstrates that extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) replication induces DNA double-strand breaks and activates the DNA damage response (DDR). The DDR pathways, such as alt-NHEJ, are critical for ecDNA maintenance in tumor cells. Mechanistic insights into ecDNA replication and maintenance unveil a therapeutic approach for treating tumors harboring ecDNA.

Complex disorders require precise strategies for their characterization. AI-based digital phenotypes from biosensors can be used to predict psychiatric disorders and identify GWAS loci.