Works in Progress Podcast Hacking proteins with AI
22 snips
Oct 1, 2025 Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing protein design, aiming to create safer and more effective vaccines. Tools like AlphaFold and ProteinMPNN are leading the charge in re-engineering proteins, particularly targeting the Strep A antigen for potential vaccines. The discussion highlights how modifying proteins can enhance manufacturability and stability. Listeners learn about the intricate processes of testing candidates in labs and how breakthroughs from AI have already impacted COVID and RSV vaccine development. Can we design entirely novel proteins using AI? Tune in to find out!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Target Surface Antigens For Strep A
- Targeting surface proteins like C5a peptidase can enable vaccines against strep A.
- A properly chosen antigen can prevent immune confusion that leads to rheumatic heart disease.
Hands-On At Institute For Protein Design
- Jacob visited the Institute for Protein Design to experiment with ProteinMPNN on a strep A antigen.
- He used the tool to propose redesigned versions of the antigen as vaccine candidates.
One Mutation Can Neutralize Harm
- Small sequence changes can remove harmful functions while keeping antigenicity.
- One amino acid swap can neutralize the protein's ability to cleave immune signals.
