OpenAI’s GPT-4b micro has unveiled a new AI model capable of turning cells into stem cells to ensure longevity

The company OpenAI in cooperation with the startup Retro Biosciences presented a new model of artificial intelligence GPT-4b micro, which can revolutionize the field of biotechnology in order to ensure longevity. As informs MIT Technology Review, this model has the potential to greatly improve protein engineering, an important step in cellular reprogramming. The model optimizes the proteins that transform normal cells into stem cells, increasing the efficiency of this process.

This collaboration was OpenAI’s first public initiative in using artificial intelligence to work with biological data. The company’s CEO Sam Altman previously noted that artificial intelligence can significantly accelerate scientific discovery and innovation, bringing humanity closer to the creation of artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Retro Biosciences, a start-up engaged in life extension research, offered OpenAI a collaboration in the field of protein engineering a year ago. The company’s mission involves improving the use of Yamanaka factors — proteins that can transform skin cells into stem cells capable of forming any tissue in the body. However, current technology has significant limitations, as only 1% of cells undergo complete transformation.

GPT-4b micro has been specially trained to develop modifications of Yamanaka factors to improve their functionality. According to OpenAI, the AI ​​solutions made these proteins more than 50% more efficient than previous human-engineered approaches.

Retro Biosciences CEO Joe Betts-Lacroix praised the results of the model’s laboratory tests, emphasizing its ability to provide practical improvements in a short period of time. He emphasized that the improvements offered by GPT-4b micro could make cellular reprogramming more efficient, opening new perspectives for regenerative medicine, organ creation and anti-aging therapies.

Despite the successful results, the collaboration has been criticized for a possible conflict of interest. Sam Altman is the largest investor in Retro Biosciences, having invested $180 million in the company. At the same time, OpenAI said that Altman was not directly involved in the GPT-4b micro project and noted that the collaboration with Retro Biosciences was a non-commercial initiative.

Although the GPT-4b micro is not yet available as a commercial product, its success demonstrates new possibilities for the use of artificial intelligence in science. Unlike models like Google’s AlphaFold, which predict protein structures, GPT-4b micro focuses on making proteins for specific tasks. This opens new perspectives not only for regenerative medicine, but also for other fields of biology, creating the basis for large-scale scientific breakthroughs.