Researchers used AI to create new viruses that did not exist in nature
Researchers from Stanford University have achieved a scientific breakthrough by using artificial intelligence to design "from scratch" completely new viruses. The creation process utilized principles similar to those of advanced language models like ChatGPT.
Researchers from Stanford University in the USA have made a scientific breakthrough after using artificial intelligence to design "from scratch" completely new viruses that did not exist in nature. The American researchers utilized AI for the task, with the creation process working similarly to well-known language models like ChatGPT.
Instead of feeding the computer text, the researchers trained the artificial intelligence model on millions of genetic codes from viruses, bacteria, plants, and humans, until the computer learned the language of DNA and succeeded in assembling new genetic sequences. These viruses are fully functional, active, and capable of replicating themselves inside cells. This success marks the first time in history that a computer has designed an entire, functional genetic code (genome).
To address safety concerns, the scientists emphasize that the 16 new viruses created by the artificial intelligence pose no threat to humans. Viruses of this type are known as "bacteriophages" (bacteria eaters); they attack and eliminate only specific bacteria without harming or penetrating human cells. Out of hundreds of designs proposed by the artificial intelligence, the researchers synthesized 302 in the laboratory and were amazed to discover that some of them successfully eliminated bacteria in petri dishes.
This discovery has the potential to transform medicine, particularly in combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The ability to design custom-tailored viruses opens the door to a new era of "computational biology," where it will be possible to produce complex drugs, treatments for genetic diseases, and even dedicated antibodies for severe illnesses at unprecedented speeds.
Alongside the immense excitement, experts warn that the technology raises urgent questions regarding safety and biological security. The central fear is that hostile actors might exploit these same principles to engineer dangerous viruses that could harm humans. Although the researchers implemented strict precautionary measures and worked within a secure laboratory, the scientific community agrees that the world must establish regulations and close supervision as soon as possible to ensure that this technology is used solely for saving lives.
