'World-first' vaccine designed by Artificial Intelligence

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed the world’s first AI-designed vaccine, targeting all coronaviruses including Covid variants and potential pandemic-causing viruses, with early trials showing safety in 39 people. The AI-generated 'super-antigen' aims to train the immune system broadly, with plans to expand to flu, Ebola, and bird flu vaccines, though human immune responses remain the key test." "article": "Researchers at the University of Cambridge have created a vaccine designed entirely by artificial intelligence, marking the first time an AI-generated antigen has been trialled in humans. The vaccine targets all coronaviruses, including Covid variants and animal viruses that could spark future pandemics, addressing the challenge of rapidly mutating pathogens. The team used genetic codes from known coronaviruses, analyzed by AI to design a 'super-antigen' that teaches the immune system to recognize and fight the entire virus family. Early trials involving 39 people confirmed safety, with a larger study of 200 participants assessing immune system training. Findings in the *Journal of Infection* described the immune response as 'modest' but promising. Prof Jonathan Heeney, lead researcher, called it a 'fundamental shift' in pandemic preparedness, emphasizing protection against future outbreaks. The team is now testing universal flu vaccines, an H5N1 bird flu vaccine, and an Ebola vaccine for the current Congo outbreak. Prof Saul Faust from the University of Southampton praised the AI’s potential for designing vaccines against evolving viruses. While animal research shows strong immune responses, human trials will determine effectiveness, as human immune systems differ from lab models. The approach could revolutionize vaccine development by targeting entire virus families rather than specific strains, reducing the need for constant updates.