Scientists have used artificial intelligence to create new viruses that can destroy bacteria. These viruses are known as bacteriophages, which are naturally found in the environment and infect only bacteria. The research was led by scientists from Stanford University and published in the journal Science.
They trained an AI model on bacteriophage genome sequences to generate new designs, according to ibtimes.com. The AI created hundreds of new genome structures that were then built in the lab, according to a report from Wired. Of the designs tested, 16 were able to infect and destroy E. coli bacteria.
This is the first time AI has been used to create fully functional viral genomes from scratch. The new viruses had different gene structures and genome sizes compared to what was already known. These artificial viruses were designed with the help of a reference virus called Phi X-174.
The goal was not to copy that virus, but to use it as a guide for creating entirely new ones. The AI-generated viruses were able to recognize and enter E. coli cells properly. They could insert their genetic material, reproduce, and form new virus particles.
The study also tested how well these viruses worked against resistant bacteria. Results showed that the AI-made phages were effective at overcoming bacterial resistance. This development may help fight infections that are no longer treatable with current antibiotics.
However, experts warn of potential misuse of this technology. Some say the ability to make such viruses has outpaced current safety rules. There are concerns about the risks of using AI to create dangerous pathogens.
The public health risk is considered low because these viruses only target bacteria. Still, researchers and safety experts say more oversight is needed. They suggest controls should cover not just AI tools but also labs and companies that make DNA.
The research team says their model was trained to avoid creating viruses that affect humans or animals. This helps reduce the chance of accidentally building harmful pathogens. The new method opens up many possibilities for future medical research.
It also brings new challenges in how to manage such powerful tools responsibly.
IMAGE: AI-Designed Bacteriophages Target and Destroy Bacteria drawing by Digital News Report