Scientists have used artificial intelligence (AI) to design virus genomes that do not exist in nature, marking a significant milestone in biotechnology and AI-assisted research.
The researchers said the AI system was able to generate new viral genetic sequences that had never been observed before. The work is intended to improve scientific understanding of how viruses evolve and function, with potential applications in vaccine development, disease research and biotechnology.
The research has also raised concerns among biosecurity experts, who warn that advances in AI could make it easier to design dangerous biological agents if the technology were misused. Because of these risks, scientists have stressed the need for strict oversight, ethical safeguards and responsible use of AI in biological research.
According to the research team, the AI-generated viruses were created under controlled laboratory conditions and are being studied to better understand viral behaviour rather than for harmful purposes. The researchers emphasised that the project followed established biosafety and biosecurity guidelines.
Experts say the breakthrough highlights both the promise and the challenges of combining AI with modern biology. While the technology could accelerate medical discoveries and improve pandemic preparedness, it also underscores the importance of international cooperation and regulation to prevent misuse.