Scientists have taken a major leap in synthetic biology by using generative AI to design functional viruses from scratch. Researchers from the Arc Institute and Stanford University utilized a biological genome language model (Evo 2)—trained on millions of natural DNA sequences—to author complete biological genomes.
The team synthesized these AI-generated blueprints in the lab, successfully creating 16 novel, viable bacteriophages (viruses that target and destroy bacteria). In lab tests, a cocktail of these AI-designed phages effectively wiped out E. coli strains, including those resistant to natural viruses.
This breakthrough proves whole-genome AI design is possible, offering a promising new weapon against drug-resistant "superbugs" through custom phage therapies. However, experts urge caution: the dual-use technology that enables life-saving medicine could potentially be exploited to engineer dangerous new pathogens, underscoring the urgent need for robust global biosecurity regulations.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y3j3ngevmo
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