First AI-designed ‘universal vaccine’ tested in humans

A vaccine targeting a broad range of viruses that was designed using artificial intelligence had a “modest” effect on immune systems in a small, early trial, according to a new study.

The trial marks the first time a vaccine whose active ingredient was entirely designed by AI has been tested in humans, researchers at the University of Cambridge in the UK said on Friday.

The experimental jab is intended to be a “universal vaccine” which protects people against a range of viruses that have previously sparked deadly outbreaks including severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars), Middle East respiratory syndrome (Mers) and Covid-19.

The researchers expressed hopes that this type of vaccine could one day help fend off future pandemics.

“We’ve converted vaccine development from being reactive to being future proof,” Cambridge researcher and study co-author Jonathan Heeney said in a statement.

Currently, vaccines for viruses such as the flu and Covid have to be regularly updated to target the latest strains.