Alphabet’s AI succeeds where scientists have obscured

The secret of the DNA code begins to unravel. Thanks to Alphabet’s DeepMind, artificial intelligence is advancing where science has long failed.

DNA is a complex puzzle that holds the secrets of our health. A single letter in this sequence can sometimes determine whether we are susceptible to a disease. Scientists have long sought to distinguish beneficial genetic mutations from harmful genetic mutations, a until now daunting task.

Alphabet, an unexpected breakthrough in genetics

Today, Alphabet, the giant company behind Google, is surprising everyone. Through DeepMind, its subsidiary, which specializes in artificial intelligence, a new tool is emerging. specific AlphaMissense, It turns out that this tool is particularly good at reading DNA.

Until now, distinguishing between good and bad mutations has been a formidable challenge. However, this innovation could revolutionize our understanding and thus the diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases.

DNA, the mirror of our uniqueness

Of course, we are all unique. Whether it is our physical characteristics or our susceptibility to certain diseases, Everything comes from DNA. This code, of amazing complexity, often hides small differences. For example, A to In one, one g At the other end. However, these differences can be small Disrupting protein production. Depending on their type, they may have no consequence, or, on the contrary, may threaten our health.

AI’s revolutionary approach to change

Of all the mutations, those called… False feeling Particularly ambiguous. It is characterized by minimal change, one letter, but can have serious consequences. Imagine that a simple typo could change an entire novel. Moreover, Joseph Marsh, the famous geneticist, highlighted this complexity in the prestigious journal Science.

However, where classical research hits a wall, AlphaMissense He seems to find the door. It does not depend on the traditional method. In fact, by studying the structure of proteins and their interactions with DNA, I was able to analyze millions of mutations. And that’s not all. You have successfully predicted the effects 89% of thema feat in itself.

But, and this is where it gets more interesting, This artificial intelligence is not limited to known mutations. She was challenged to explore the unexplored depths of DNA, to look at previously unknown sequences. In rare disease research, this skill is invaluable. In addition, it provides Database containing 216 million variablesa valuable resource for researchers.

However, everything is not rosy. Although Google is proud Advantages of AlphaMissenseSome, such as Joseph Marsh, call for a more measured approach. An external and independent evaluation is necessary. After all, a machine, no matter how sophisticated, must be checked by human experience.