Towards inclusive biodesign and innovation: lowering barriers to entry in medical device development through large language model tools

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: John T. Moon, Emory University; Nicholas J. Lima, Emory University; Eleanor Bell Froula, Emory University; Hanzhou Li, Emory University; Janice Newsome, Emory University; Hari Trivedi, Emory University; Zachary L. Bercu, Emory University; Judy Wawira Gichoya, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2024
• Publisher: BMJ
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024.
• License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): https://doi.org/10.1136%2Fbmjhci-2023-100952
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: BMJ Health & Care Informatics
• Volume: 31
• Issue: 1
• Start Page: e100952
• Grant/Funding Information: Research reported in this publication was supported in part by Imagine, Innovate and Impact (I3) Awards from the Emory School of Medicine and through the Georgia CTSA NIH award (UL1-TR002378).
• Keywords: decision making; BMJ Health Informatics; informatics; computer-assisted; data science; decision support techniques
• Research Categories: Artificial Intelligence; Health Sciences, Health Care Management

Abstract

In the following narrative review, we discuss the potential role of large language models (LLMs) in medical device innovation, specifically examples using generative pretrained transformer-4. Throughout the biodesign process, LLMs can offer prompt-driven insights, aiding problem identification, knowledge assimilation and decision-making. Intellectual property analysis, regulatory assessment and market analysis emerge as key LLM applications. Through case examples, we underscore LLMs’ transformative ability to democratise information access and expertise, facilitating inclusive innovation in medical devices as well as its effectiveness with providing real-time, individualised feedback for innovators of all experience levels. By mitigating entry barriers, LLMs accelerate transformative advancements, fostering collaboration among established and emerging stakeholders.