Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the University of Washington in Seattle have successfully used artificial intelligence (AI) to design brand-new enzymes that can perform multi-step reactions. The new enzymes, which were 60,000 times more efficient than previously designed ones, have the potential to revolutionize various biological and industrial processes, including plastic recycling.
Forecast for 6 months: Expect to see increased investment in AI-powered enzyme engineering research, with several companies and institutions announcing collaborations to develop new enzymes for various applications.
Forecast for 1 year: The first commercial applications of AI-designed enzymes are likely to emerge, with potential uses in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes. This could lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency in these industries.
Forecast for 5 years: As the technology advances, we can expect to see widespread adoption of AI-designed enzymes in various sectors, including agriculture, food processing, and environmental remediation. This could lead to significant environmental benefits and improved food security.
Forecast for 10 years: The development of AI-designed enzymes could lead to a new era of biotechnology, with potential applications in areas such as regenerative medicine, synthetic biology, and biofuels. This could have a profound impact on human health, the environment, and the economy.
