Cambridge researchers test first AI-designed vaccine antigen in human trials

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully conducted the first human trials of a vaccine containing an antigen designed entirely by artificial intelligence. The study, which involved 39 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 50, took place at medical facilities in Southampton and Cambridge. The trial reported no significant side effects and confirmed that the vaccine triggered a protective immune response against Sarbeco coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and SARS, as well as related bat viruses.

This development marks the first instance where the active component of a vaccine has been designed exclusively by a computer and subsequently used in human trials. The research was led by Professor Jonathan Heeney from the Lab of Viral Zoonotics within the university’s Department of Veterinary Medicine. The team utilised machine learning to analyse all available global genetic sequence data for Sarbeco coronaviruses, creating what they describe as a "super-antigen" with features common to the entire group of viruses.

The vaccine aims to provide broad, long-term protection against a wide range of diseases, moving away from the traditional model of reactive vaccine development. Current vaccines often struggle to keep pace with rapid viral mutations, requiring constant updates to match circulating variants. In contrast, this new approach seeks to offer an all-in-one solution for viruses that jump between humans, such as influenza and Ebola, potentially offering protection against diseases that have not yet emerged.

"We've converted vaccine development from being reactive to being future proof," Professor Heeney stated. He noted that the technology allows vaccines to continue providing protection against viruses even as they mutate into new strains, overcoming the limitations of traditional vaccines which often provide only limited protection against specific strains. This capability means the medical community can escape the cycle of constantly chasing virus variants.

Due to the relatively small sample size of the initial trial, the long-term durability of the immune response and the effectiveness against future pandemics have not yet been fully established. The next phase of the trial will involve a broader and more diverse group of participants to further assess the vaccine's effectiveness and validate the theoretical benefits observed in the initial cohort.