Ikaros
Discover scalable and innovative solutions for karyotyping and fluorescence in situ
hybridization (FISH).
The innovative imaging software Ikaros combines state-of-the-art tools for image acquisition and processing with a workflow based on artificial intelligence (AI) for karyotyping. Together with the congenial case and image management, Ikaros is thus an essential building block for scalable and efficient solutions for cytogenetic imaging.

Karyotyping
- Fast and reliable generation of karyogram suggestions for the expert's review using artificial intelligence (AI).
- Continuous logging of processing steps and unlimited access to the original images to facilitate full control of the entire workflow.
- Various configurations to integrate Ikaros to a stand-alone image acquisition unit, a karyotyping workstation, or a ‘doctor’s review' workplace with access to patient data and statistics.
- Support of all common banding techniques for human and non-human chromosomes.
- Built-in karyogram form editor with idiograms (ISCN 2016) in different resolutions.
- Editor for combined karyograms with the possibility to edit and annotate individual chromosomes.
- One-click switching between different capture settings — from brightfield to fluorescence and back.
- Manual image acquisition with one-click capture, automatic contrast enhancement, and best focus plane selection.
- Automated image acquisition with the optional Metafer software for metaphase finding.

FISH Imaging
- One-click image acquisition of up to 12 color channels with automatic exposure time adjustment.
- Support of most common motorized microscopes.
- Versatile options for automated and manual image enhancement.
- Continuous logging of processing steps and unlimited access to the original images.
- Selective editing of individual color channels and even of individual areas in the image.
- Display of single color separations and various pseudo color visualizations.
- Access to the same karyotyping functions as for transmitted light images.
- Support of Multicolor FISH (mFISH) and proprietary Multicolor Chromosome Banding (mBAND).
- Various tools for identification of chromosomes, chromosome fragments, and marker chromosomes in the mFISH/mBAND mode.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Rapid and Reliable Karyotyping
Karyotyping is often referred to as the “gold standard” in cytogenetics. Innovative trends in artificial intelligence (AI) have opened up new possibilities for image analysis. So-called Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) are the basis of this advancement.
The DNN based algorithms in the Ikaros DNN module provide significant improvement for chromosome classification compared to previous software algorithms. AI-driven Ikaros is able to generate karyogram proposals directly from the original metaphase image with an unprecedented high probability of accuracy.
The algorithms handle both the automatic separation of chromosomes and chromosome clusters and the correct assignment into the karyogram form. The results are ready-made proposals for a karyogram, which then only need to be reviewed and assessed by the cytogenetics expert. For any corrections that may be necessary, the user is supported by unlimited access to all processing steps and the original images of the acquisition.
Interested in the new AI driven karyotyping with Ikaros? Contact us via info@metasystems-international.com.

Comfortable Onscreen Karyotyping
Ikaros provides AI-driven chromosome separation and classification in metaphases of all common chromosome banding methods (e.g., G-Banding, R-Banding, and Q-Banding). Also, different tissue types, e.g., lymphocytes, bone marrow, amniotic fluid, and chorionic villi are supported.
The Ikaros software combines an intuitive graphic user interface with a variety of powerful tools to provide the flexibility required in analyzing even the most complex metaphases. Designed to minimize the number of interactions, Ikaros ensures amazingly fast results.
Every Ikaros managed workstation comes with a sophisticated case and workflow management called Neon. Neon provides the highest data security standards, and allows for easy content access, full workflow control, and multi-level user management.
Sophisticated Fluorescence and FISH Imaging
The fluorescence imaging modules Ikaros BASE C and Ikaros Karyo C offer innovative tools for processing images of various biological origins. Options for color karyotyping, Multicolor FISH (mFISH), and Multicolor Chromosome Banding (mBAND) are available.
Thanks to the support of most common motorized microscopes, fluorescence images can be acquired in Ikaros BASE C with just one mouse click. Alternatively, an imaging system managed by the Metafer software can automate slide scanning and the acquisition of high-resolution images. Intelligent acquisition parameters enable consistent signal quality even with changing hybridization conditions.
With a few keyboard shortcuts, images can be improved in seconds, for example by removing unspecific background. However, should manual editing of the image ever be necessary, this can be done with precise tools specifically for individual color channels or even for individual areas within the image.
A selection of different, individually adjustable pseudo color displays help to bring out the essence of an image. In the case of mFISH and mBAND, this is complemented by an intelligent evaluation of the color composition from each pixel, which makes it possible to determine the origin of the chromosomal material beyond doubt in most cases.
Of course, all karyotyping functions are fully accessible in fluorescence mode as well, and here too users benefit from the complete log of all processing steps. In this way, errors can be detected during editing and, if necessary, undone all the way back to the original image.

As part of Ikaros and Metafer, Neon is the convenient interface for organizing case and image data. Users configure overview dashboards to summarize cases, processing statuses, and case statistics. Interfaces for data exchange with external databases can be adapted. The fields on case data sheets and reports are customizable to meet specific needs.
Although Ikaros can be integrated to a stand-alone installation, the software shows its true strength in an environment where many workstations work together to form a comprehensive imaging solution. Thus, Ikaros can be integrated into karyotyping stations (Ikaros Karyo M), fluorescence imaging stations (Ikaros BASE C and Ikaros Karyo C), data management stations, or review stations (Ikaros Review). With the solutions by MetaSystems, it is possible to extend the scalable multiuser network at any time and grow with the prospective demand.
In combination with the efficient Metafer software for metaphase searching, image acquisition and FISH pre-evaluation, workplaces can be created that combine maximum efficiency with the highest user comfort and data security.
Functions that were previously offered as Isis have been merged into the new overall package of the Ikaros software. When updating an existing system, we will of course adapt your licenses so that the range of functions does not change to your disadvantage.
The current CE labeled software version is Ikaros 6.3. The information about Ikaros in our online presence refers to this version number.
Legal Note
MetaSystems software and system products are classified as in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVD) in the European Union in accordance with In Vitro Diagnostics Regulation (EU) 2017/746 or In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Device Directive 98/79/EC, respectively, and carry the CE label unless otherwise indicated. Use all MetaSystems IVD products only within the scope of their intended purpose.
MetaSystems products are used in many countries worldwide. Depending on the regulations of the respective country or region, some products may not be used for clinical diagnostics.
Some hardware components supplied by other manufacturers are not included in MetaSystems IVD products and are therefore not IVD medical devices.
MetaSystems software provides, among other functions, features to assist users with image processing. These include, but are not limited to, the use of machine and deep learning algorithms for pattern recognition. The output generated in this process should be regarded as preliminary suggestions and, in any case, mandatorily requires review and assessment by trained experts.
MetaSystems offers Customization Packages for application workflows that have been successfully implemented for customer labs using standard Metafer platform functionality. It is expected that they can be implemented for other customer labs using similar workflows and slide preparation procedures. If a Customization Package is purchased, MetaSystems product specialists will - based on their experience from other similar application cases - support the customer lab in adapting the Metafer software configuration to their needs. The performance of the solution will depend on the quality of the customer slides and the expertise of the users, MetaSystems cannot specify or guarantee any performance parameters. The validation of the solution for clinical use is the sole responsibility of the customer lab.
Please contact us for further information.