The University of Cambridge and a university spinout said an AI-designed
candidate broad-spectrum avian influenza vaccine protected animals against
multiple genetically distinct strains in preclinical studies. Researchers
analyzed global surveillance sequence data with AI to design “super-antigens”
that capture conserved viral features, screened candidates in cells, then tested
the selected immunogen in mice and ferrets. All vaccinated animals survived
challenge with several strains that have previously infected humans; a
comparison group given an existing avian influenza vaccine had roughly 50%
survival. Lead researcher Jonathan Heeney said the candidate aims to offer broad
protection against evolving avian influenza viruses and that AI substantially
accelerates vaccine design.
