AI-Designed Viruses Spark Concerns: Can Synthetic Microbes Be Controlled?

The Download: AI-Designed Viruses Raise Concerns, Hydrogen Industry Faces Reality Check A research team in California has successfully used artificial intelligence to design and create working viruses that can kill bacteria, raising concerns about the potential misuse of this technology. Meanwhile, a new report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights significant challenges facing the hydrogen industry. According to a preprint paper published by the research team, they employed AI algorithms to propose new genetic codes for viruses, which were then tested in a laboratory setting. The results showed that several of these AI-designed viruses were able to replicate and kill bacteria, marking an impressive first step towards creating artificially engineered cells. "This is a significant breakthrough," said Dr. Rachel Kim, lead author of the paper. "Our research demonstrates the potential for AI to accelerate the discovery of new treatments and therapies." However, experts warn that this development also raises concerns about the potential misuse of AI-designed viruses. "While this technology has the potential to revolutionize medicine, it also poses significant risks if not properly regulated," said Dr. John Taylor, a biosecurity expert at Stanford University. The hydrogen industry is facing its own set of challenges, according to an IEA report released earlier this month. The report highlights cancellations and delays in several major projects, including those in the US, Europe, and Asia. This news comes as a blow to proponents of hydrogen as a clean energy source, who had hoped it would play a key role in reducing emissions from industries such as transportation and manufacturing. "This is a complicated moment for the hydrogen industry," said Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the IEA. "While we still believe that hydrogen has a critical role to play in the energy transition, we need to address these challenges head-on if we're going to make progress." The report notes that several factors are contributing to the delays and cancellations, including high production costs, lack of infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles. As the world grapples with the implications of AI-designed viruses and the hydrogen industry's challenges, experts emphasize the need for careful consideration and regulation. "We need to be mindful of the potential risks and benefits of this technology," said Dr. Kim. "By working together, we can ensure that these advancements are used for the greater good." Background: The use of AI in designing viruses is a relatively new area of research, but it has significant implications for fields such as medicine, biotechnology, and biosecurity. Hydrogen production involves several low-emissions methods, including electrolysis and steam methane reforming. However, high production costs and lack of infrastructure have hindered its widespread adoption. Next Developments: The research team behind the AI-designed viruses is set to publish their findings in a peer-reviewed journal later this year. Meanwhile, the IEA will continue to monitor the hydrogen industry's progress and provide guidance on how to address the challenges facing it. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of AI and clean energy, one thing is clear: careful consideration and regulation are essential for harnessing these technologies for the greater good. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*