AI-designed vaccine shows promise against pandemics

Early trial in 39 people found the ‘world’s first’ AI vaccine safe; larger study under way to assess immune response against a broad family of coronaviruses.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been used to develop a vaccine designed to protect against a broad range of coronaviruses, raising hopes of better preparedness for future pandemics, BBC reported.

Scientists at the University of Cambridge said it is the world's first vaccine whose key antigen was designed entirely by AI and subsequently tested in humans. The vaccine is intended to provide protection against all coronaviruses, including Covid variants and animal-borne strains that could spark future outbreaks.

The AI-designed “super-antigen” was created after analysing genetic codes from multiple coronaviruses identified through surveillance programmes. Researchers said the approach could train the immune system to recognise a wider family of viruses, even as they mutate.

“This is a fundamental shift in how we prepare for pandemics,” said Professor Jonathan Heeney of the University of Cambridge.

Early-stage trials involving 39 people were conducted to assess safety, while a larger study involving about 200 participants is under way. Findings published in the Journal of Infection described the immune response as “modest”, but researchers said the results remain encouraging.

The Cambridge team is also developing similar vaccines targeting influenza, H5N1 bird flu and viral haemorrhhagic fevers, including Ebola.