China scientists revolutionise protein design with AI-powered innovation

China researchers have achieved a groundbreaking advancement in protein design using artificial intelligence, introducing the world's largest protein sequence dataset and precision-driven AI models. This is reported by China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.

Experts believe that this innovation is poised to revolutionise industries by significantly reducing the time and cost of protein modifications.

The team’s cutting-edge technology transforms traditional protein modification, which often required years of trial-and-error experimentation, into a highly efficient process. Their approach slashes the development timeline from 2–5 years to as little as 6–12 months.

By enabling precise modification and selection of proteins with unique properties — such as resistance to extreme temperatures, acidity, or digestion — the technology promises wide-ranging applications in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and industrial production.

The scientists highlighted the models' two core functions: AI-directed protein evolution and AI-driven massive screening. These capabilities allow the optimisation of underperforming proteins and the identification of high-functionality proteins, such as those with extreme heat resistance or gastrointestinal resilience. Such advancements are expected to catalyse innovation across scientific disciplines and industries.

Additionally, the research team developed the world’s first fully integrated automation system for protein expression, purification, and functional testing.

This machine, capable of processing over 100 protein tasks in 24 hours, enhances efficiency tenfold compared to traditional manual methods, reducing labour and resource demands while accelerating the pace of synthetic biology research.

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