TWiV 1355: Four billion years of AI training data

TWiV reviews a landmark paper reporting the first generative design of complete viral genomes using AI, producing 16 viable bacteriophages that overcame antibiotic-resistant bacteria where natural phages could not, and a study suggesting that recombinant shingles vaccination reduces the risk of cardiovascular events.

Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Kathy Spindler, and Brianne Barker

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Links for this episode

• Support science education at MicrobeTV
• Recombinant shingles vaccination reduces risk of cardiovascular events (Nat Med)
• AI design of bacteriophages (Science)
• AI-designed viral genomes (Science)
• Letters read on TWiV 1355
• Timestamps by Jolene Ramsey. Thanks!

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Brianne – The Generative AI Learning Penalty: Evidence from Chinese Secondary Education Kathy – Ballista spider’s web to trap aggressive ants here and here Vincent – Microbecharmer from Sarah

Listener Pick

Shirley – The Measles-Stricken Mother Who Lost Her Newborn Son Torsten – The battle over Covid’s origins has come for Bob Garry: A Top Virus Scientist Stared Down Covid Lab-Leak Proponents. Now His Life’s Work Is at Stake

Intro music is by Ronald Jenkees

Send your virology questions and comments to [email protected]

Content in this podcast should not be construed as medical advice.