IDx, which recently made news when its AI-based diagnostic system for autonomous detection of diabetic retinopathy was given expedited FDA review as a "breakthrough device," has moved to a larger office building to help it scale up to enter the U.S. market.

IDx officials say the new building, at 2300 Oakdale Blvd. in Coralville, will better accommodate the company's rapid growth as it pursues FDA clearance. The company has 25 employees and is currently hiring for eight open positions in sales, marketing and engineering.

"IDx's growth is important to the Iowa City area; not only from a job creation perspective, but also from a technology transfer standpoint," said Kim Casko, president and CEO of Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce, in a news release. "They serve as a great example of how innovative research at the University of Iowa can be used to further advance the area's economic growth."

IDx was founded in 2010 by a team of renowned ophthalmologists at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. The company's first product, IDx-DR, is an AI-based diagnostic system for the autonomous detection of diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness. More than 24,000 people with diabetes lose vision each year from diabetic retinopathy. However, if caught in its early stages, vision loss and blindness are almost entirely preventable.

If cleared by the FDA, IDx-DR is expected to become the first autonomous, AI-based diagnostic system intended for use in the front lines of healthcare.

"With potential FDA clearance on the horizon, we are looking for talented individuals who believe in our mission and want to help the company grow to its full potential," said Gary Seamans, IDx chairman and CEO. "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of a company that is on the cusp of transforming healthcare."

IDx was located in Iowa City prior to moving to its new location.