AI-designed universal coronavirus vaccine passes first human trial

A new type of universal coronavirus vaccine has passed its first human clinical trial, marking an important step toward broader protection against future virus outbreaks.

Developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge and the university spinout company DIOSynVax (DVX) Ltd, the experimental vaccine was found to be safe and caused no significant side effects in a study involving 39 healthy volunteers.

Unlike conventional vaccines that target specific virus strains, this vaccine was designed to protect against multiple members of the Sarbeco coronavirus family. This group includes SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as SARS and several related bat coronaviruses that could potentially spill over into humans in the future.

The trial showed that the vaccine stimulated immune responses not only against SARS-CoV-2 and SARS, but also against related bat viruses that have not yet infected humans.

The study also marked another milestone. It was the first time a vaccine whose active ingredient was created entirely through computer simulations was tested in people.

Researchers used artificial intelligence and machine learning to design what they call a "super-antigen." The antigen is the component of a vaccine that trains the immune system to recognize and fight infection.

Rather than focusing on a single virus strain, the AI system analyzed genetic information from Sarbeco coronaviruses collected through surveillance programs worldwide. Using this information, it identified features shared across the entire virus group and combined them into a single vaccine antigen.

The goal is to create protection not only against known viruses, but also against future strains that have not yet emerged.

"This trial proves the safety of an entirely new way of designing vaccines. The technology uses an AI-designed 'super-antigen' to provide lasting protection against a broad range of viruses -- for example the Ebola group, or Sarbeco coronavirus group -- even as they mutate."

Researchers believe the same strategy could eventually be applied to other virus families, including Ebola viruses and influenza viruses.

Many current vaccines, including seasonal flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines, are designed around virus strains already circulating in people. Because viruses evolve continuously, vaccines often need regular reformulation and annual updates.

Professor Jonathan Heeney from the Lab of Viral Zoonotics in the University of Cambridge's Department of Veterinary Medicine, who led the scientific research, said the new approach