Researchers have discovered a new class of virus-like genetic material, named Obelisks, in the human microbiome, with potential implications for understanding the evolution of genetic molecules and viruses. These mysterious entities have been found in about 10 percent of human microbiomes and appear to be present in different areas of the body. While their source and impact on host cells remain unclear, they may represent a new class of protein and could potentially resemble RNA plasmids rather than traditional viruses.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard have used AI to analyze billions of genetic sequences from open-source databases and identified nearly 200 potential new systems for CRISPR gene editing. The AI algorithm scoured databases containing genomes from uncommon bacteria, including those found in breweries, coal mines, and even dog saliva. The newly discovered CRISPR systems include variations that could improve precision and reduce side effects, as well as systems targeting RNA. While it is still early to determine their potential for human gene editing, the AI tool provides a valuable resource for further exploration and understanding of the diversity of CRISPR systems in nature.
Scientists have developed a new AI system called early warning anomaly detection (EWAD) that can analyze genetic sequences, frequencies, and mortality rates of virus variants to predict the emergence of dangerous variants in future pandemics, providing a potential heads-up on the next deadly virus before it becomes a global threat.
A Chinese scientist has claimed that Covid-19 may have originated from humans, based on the genetic sequences of viral samples taken from the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan. The scientist also refuted recent studies suggesting racoon dogs were the origin of the virus. Another researcher called for global scientific collaboration in tracing the origins of the virus, while China maintains it has been transparent and cooperative with the WHO. Debates surrounding the origins of the virus reemerged recently following an assessment by the US Department of Energy, but a Chinese researcher refuted the lab leak theory, saying it is "extremely unlikely."
