Liver cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, and even after surgery, the battle isn’t over—up to 70% of patients face a relapse.
But what if doctors could predict who’s at risk before the cancer returns?
Enter TIMES, an AI-powered breakthrough developed by a research team from the University of Science and Technology of China.
This tool doesn’t just count immune cells; it maps their spatial organization within the tumor.
This approach has proven to be far more accurate in predicting recurrence risk.
“Immune cells aren’t just pieces on a chessboard,” explains lead researcher Sun Cheng.
“Where they are placed determines the outcome of the game.”
What Is The Best Part?
By analyzing tumor samples with cutting-edge AI and spatial immune profiling, TIMES predicts recurrence with an impressive 82.2% accuracy—outperforming existing models.
The best part? The team has made TIMES available online for free, allowing doctors worldwide to upload images and receive instant assessments.

It’s a major leap forward for personalized cancer treatment, especially in regions with limited medical resources.
With industry collaborations in progress, TIMES could soon become a standard tool in cancer care.
The fight against liver cancer isn’t over, but with AI in the doctor’s arsenal, the odds are finally shifting.