Virus are the master engineers of nature, capable of encapsulating and deliver genetic material with remarkable precision. These natural systems have long been a source of inspiration for scientists seeking to revolutionize gene therapy. Yet, replicating the complex functionality of viral protein coats, known as capsids– proved difficult. Artificial nanocagesmodeled on viruses, failed due to limited capacity and lack of complexity.
From now on, a collaboration between Professor Sangmin Lee Since POSTECH And Professor David Baker, winner of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry of the University of Washington transformed this area. Their groundbreaking research, published in Nature on December 18, use artificial intelligence (AI) to mimic and enhance viral structures, providing a new frontier in therapeutic delivery.
The power of AI to redefine protein design
Traditional gene therapy vectors, such as adeno-associated virus (AAV)are limited by their small genetic carrying capacity. To overcome this problem, the research team turned to AI-driven computer designreinventing nanocages in tetrahedral, octahedral and icosahedral forms.
What stands out is the icosahedral nanocagewith a diameter of 75 nanometers and the capacity to contain three times more genetic material than AAVs. By incorporating subtle asymmetries found in natural viruses, these AI-designed nanostructures achieve levels of functionality previously unattainable with traditional methods.
Key features of AI-designed nanocages:
- Geometries: Tetrahedral, octahedral and icosahedral shapes.
- Size: Up to 75 nanometers in diameter.
- Ability: Contains three times more genetic material than traditional AAVs.
- Complexity: Includes six distinct protein-protein interfaces.
- Precision: Symmetry confirmed by electron microscopy.
Precision meets performance: testing nanocages
AI-designed nanocages are not only effective, they are also transformative. Electron microscopy validated the accuracy of these designs, and functional experiments demonstrated their ability to deliver therapeutic genes directly to target cells. This combination of precision and performance redefines what is possible in medical biotechnology.
Potential applications:
- Gene therapy for genetic diseases.
- Development of new generation vaccines.
- Precisely targeted drug delivery.
These multifunctional nanocages challenge the status quo, providing a platform for breakthroughs that go beyond current limits.
Collaboration at the forefront of innovation
This achievement highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration. Professor Leewho spent almost three years working Professor Baker laboratory before joining POSTECH, brought a unique perspective to this partnership. Supported by funding from Ministry of Science and ICT of Korea and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)the research illustrates how global collaboration can lead to scientific breakthroughs.
Research contributions:
| Donor | Role | Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Professor Sangmin Lee | Leader in AI-Driven IT Design | POSTECH, South Korea |
| Professor David Baker | Protein design expertise | University of Washington, United States |
| Funding sources | Financial support for the project | Ministry of Science and ICT, HHMI |
Reimagining the future of medicine
“Advancements in AI have opened the door to a new era in which we can design and assemble artificial proteins to meet the needs of humanity,” said Professor Lee. These AI-designed nanocages represent a step beyond imitating nature: they redefine it. Their potential goes well beyond gene therapy, with promising innovations in new generation vaccinestargeted drug delivery and beyond.
This research is more than an important step; it’s a bold statement that challenges conventional thinking. By leveraging the power of AI, scientists aren’t just learning from nature: they’re improving it, ushering in a new era of precision medicine. The question is no longer whether AI can reshape biotechnology, but how far it can take us.
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