Nikon has disqualified the winner of its Small World In Motion contest after it was revealed that a prize-winning video was AI-generated. The video, submitted by Dr Ning Xu from Tsinghua University, showed moving cilia in a child with PCD. Nikon stated that the use of generative AI in the composition of the video broke the rules of the competition.

The decision came after complaints from scientists, including former competition judges, who argued that the video did not appear real. Dr Robert Hirst, a University of Leicester scientist, was among the first to raise concerns, stating that the cells and cilia in the video did not resemble those from PCD patients. Dr Xu acknowledged using AI but believed he had followed the rules.

Nikon said it would now review its rules and procedures for the annual contest, which has been running for 15 years and is specifically for microscopic images. The firm stated that the decision was not a judgement on the entrant's professional reputation or scientific contributions.

The controversy has raised questions about the ethical use of AI in scientific competitions. As the world increasingly relies on AI, such incidents highlight the importance of clear guidelines to maintain integrity.