AI-Driven Therapeutic Innovations
At Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH), a team of researchers has achieved a significant breakthrough in therapeutic development.
By leveraging the power of artificial intelligence (AI), they have effectively mimicked the intricate structures of viruses.
This project brings together the expertise of Professor Sangmin Lee from the Department of Chemical Engineering and 2024 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Professor David Baker from the University of Washington.
Their remarkable findings were published on December 18 in the prestigious journal Nature.
Engineering Nanocages for Gene Delivery
The foundation of their research focuses on how viruses are naturally designed to efficiently encase genetic material within protein shells, which enables them to replicate and invade host cells—often leading to various illnesses.
With this in mind, scientists have been exploring the creation of synthetic proteins modeled on viral structures.
These engineered “nanocages” hold promise for delivering therapeutic genes right into targeted cells.
However, conventional nanocages have typically faced challenges related to their size and basic designs, which do not fully encapsulate the complex features of genuine viral proteins.
To tackle these obstacles, the research team turned to AI-driven computational design methods.
Notably, while many viruses exhibit symmetrical shapes, they also possess detailed asymmetries that can enhance their overall function.
Utilizing AI, the researchers were able to replicate these sophisticated traits, leading to the development of nanocages in several geometric forms, such as tetrahedral, octahedral, and icosahedral.
Each of these innovative nanostructures is constructed from four varieties of synthetic proteins that intertwine to create complex architectures through six distinct types of protein-protein interactions.
Particularly impressive is the icosahedral design, measuring up to 75 nanometers in diameter and capable of housing three times as much genetic material as traditional gene delivery systems like adeno-associated viruses (AAV).
This advancement marks a substantial improvement in the field of gene therapy.
Future Implications and Funding
Electron microscopy confirmed that these AI-designed nanocages successfully retained their intended symmetrical shapes.
Subsequent functional tests demonstrated their effectiveness in delivering therapeutic agents to target cells, paving the way for exciting clinical applications.
Professor Lee noted the transformative impact of AI in the design and synthesis of artificial proteins aimed at addressing significant health issues.
Their research not only seeks to accelerate the progress of gene therapies but also aspires to inspire innovations in the development of next-generation vaccines and various fields within biomedicine.
Before joining POSTECH in January 2024, Professor Lee spent nearly three years as a postdoctoral researcher in Professor Baker’s lab at the University of Washington.
This impactful research received funding from multiple initiatives, including the Ministry of Science and ICT of the Republic of Korea, which supports programs such as the Outstanding Young Scientist Program, the Nano and Material Technology Development Program, and the Global Frontier Research Program.
Additionally, support came from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) in the United States.
Source: ScienceDaily