wire / 2026-08-07-e7c4
Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Broad researchers use Evo1 and Evo2 to design 16 functional bacteriophages
The models designed novel viruses and the viruses worked. Reviewers will now debate whether this counts as a demo or a proof of concept.
The facts
Researchers at Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and the Broad Institute used AI models Evo1 and Evo2 to design thousands of new bacteriophage virus genomes, synthesizing 16 functional viruses that effectively target E. coli. While intended for medical use, experts warn of potential misuse, highlighting significant biosecurity risks.