A Biotechnology Company Successfully Edits DNA in Human Cells Using Artificial Intelligence Generated Gene Editors
Today, Founder and CEO of Biotechnology company Profluent, Ali Madani, announced that his team has achieved a major milestone in gene editing by successfully editing DNA in human cells using gene editors entirely designed by artificial intelligence. The groundbreaking development has the potential to revolutionize how researchers approach gene editing and could have far-reaching implications in various fields.
Profluent’s innovation was made possible through the use of large language models (LLMs) trained on extensive biological datasets to create millions of diverse CRISPR-like proteins. These AI-designed proteins, which do not occur naturally, expand the scope of CRISPR technology by introducing novel cas9-like proteins and guide RNAs (gRNAs) that are significantly different from any existing in nature. According to Madani, these AI-designed tools have shown comparable or superior activity and specificity compared to widely used gene editing effector SpCas9.
Extensive wet lab characterization confirmed the enhanced capabilities of these AI-generated gene editors, with one standout innovation being an AI-designed base editor capable of precise A-to-G edits, marking a significant advance in gene-editing precision.
Profluent’s decision to make these AI-designed tools available for free under the OpenCRISPR initiative is expected to democratize access to cutting-edge technology and fuel further innovation in the field of gene editing. The open-access model could lead to new ways of treating genetic diseases and has the potential to advance research in aging, with implications for addressing diseases and genetic factors associated with aging.
While the potential of AI and CRISPR in medicine is immense, it is essential to consider the ethical implications and ensure rigorous testing through clinical trials. Profluent’s initiative marks a significant step forward in gene editing technology and sets a precedent for the responsible sharing of biotechnological advances.
The future of genetic research, particularly in aging, looks promising with the continued development and ethical deployment of AI-designed CRISPR tools. These technologies could offer novel solutions to persistent challenges in medicine and health, paving the way for new possibilities in the field.
