Artificial intelligence (AI) has long been a topic of discussion and concern for many, but recent developments have shown that this technology has immense potential to benefit humanity. One such breakthrough is the recent use of AI to discover a new antibiotic capable of fighting a drug-resistant superbug, classified as a “critical” threat by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Scientists from McMaster University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have employed machine learning, a branch of AI, in a study published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology to find a novel antibiotic that can combat Acinetobacter baumannii. This bacterium is commonly found in hospitals and can lead to severe infections. Often transmitted person-to-person through healthcare workers, Acinetobacter baumannii has developed resistance to most antibiotics. In 2017, WHO called for “urgently needed” new antibiotics to fight this dangerous microorganism.
The application of machine learning has been invaluable in achieving this goal. AI’s ability to quickly explore vast areas of chemical space increases the likelihood of discovering new molecules with antibacterial activity. In the fight against disease, this technology can be utilized to screen hundreds of millions to billions of molecules with the desired antibacterial properties.
In this specific case, scientists screened 7,500 molecules to find a new antibacterial compound called abaucin. Laboratory tests have demonstrated that abaucin can effectively treat infected wounds on mice. Nevertheless, further testing is required before this novel antibiotic can be used in standard medical treatments. Despite the need for additional research, the discovery of abaucin is a “promising lead” and serves as a testament to the power of machine learning in antibiotic discovery.
While the potential of AI and machine learning is undeniable, skepticism still persists around the implementation of such technology. Concerns about the ethical implications, job displacement, and possible misuse of AI are often raised. Balancing the incredible benefits, such as those seen in antibiotic discovery, with the potential risks involved in AI’s implementation remains a critical challenge.
In the end, the discovery of abaucin demonstrates the potential for AI to have an enormously positive impact on public health and reflects the ongoing need for innovations in the medical field. With careful consideration of the potential ethical and societal ramifications, the continued exploration and development of AI could ultimately lead to significant improvements in the lives of millions of people worldwide.
Source: Decrypt
