Revolutionary AI Tool Predicts Emergence of Deadly Viruses

In 2023, generative artificial intelligence has emerged as a prominent topic of discussion. While its applications in consumer and business sectors are often highlighted, it is important to note that generative AI has also made significant contributions in the realms of academics and research. A recent report sheds light on a group of researchers who have successfully created an AI tool capable of predicting potentially fatal viruses before their emergence. This groundbreaking model holds immense potential in foreseeing pandemic situations similar to COVID-19, thereby allowing governments and the healthcare industry to enhance their preparedness.

According to a VOA News report, the tool’s creators said the AI model works by assessing the chance that a viral variant is able to escape the body’s natural immune system. The tool, EVEscape, works by analyzing the collected information about the progression or mutation of the virus over a certain period of time. The system also takes into account comprehensive biological and structural information about the virus to make a complete prediction.

An artificial intelligence tool that can predict new virus strains

The study containing the group’s findings was published in the journal Nature. The approach represents a form of “generative artificial intelligence,” a term that refers to technology tools designed to operate at human levels. EVEscape was created in collaboration with researchers at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom and Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts.

The reason research and development of such tools is important is that viruses mutate and change their RNA structure whenever they come into contact with living organisms. This mutation is a natural instinct to survive and become stronger. Every time the virus enters a new organism, it mutates and becomes stronger if it can fight the immune system. When sufficient mutation allows it to escape human immunity, it becomes extremely dangerous.

The scientists expanded on their previous efforts, which focused on a tool they developed, known as EVE. This tool is specially designed for the study of gene mutations caused by human diseases. In a previous research project, the team reported the successful use of EVE to identify mutations associated with diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

“We want to know if we can predict viral variation and predict new variants — because if we can, that’s very important for designing vaccines and treatments,” said senior author Debora Marks, professor of systems biology at the Blavatnik Institute. at Harvard Medical School.