Cambridge’s needle-free DNA vaccine targets future pandemics with AI design
Cambridge: University of Cambridge researchers have tested the world’s first AI-designed vaccine in people. The vaccine’s key component was created entirely by artificial intelligence.
The aim is a single jab that works against all known COVID variants and related bat viruses that could cause future pandemics. Traditional vaccines target one specific virus strain. When viruses mutate, vaccines lose effectiveness. That’s why flu shots are updated yearly and COVID vaccines have been revised since 2021.
AI solves this by scanning thousands of virus genomes to find stable parts that rarely change. The Cambridge team used AI to analyse the sarbecovirus family — including SARS, COVID and animal coronaviruses — and built the vaccine around those shared features.
Unlike mRNA shots, this vaccine uses DNA. DNA is more stable, so it’s easier to store and transport without heavy cold-chain infrastructure. It’s also needle-free. A high-pressure liquid stream delivers it through the skin, making mass vaccination easier during outbreaks.
The first human trial showed the vaccine is safe and well tolerated. It triggered antibodies that can recognise different sarbecoviruses. Scientists say this proves AI can design “variant-proof” vaccines for future threats. The delivery method could also boost access worldwide.
But immune responses were modest and it’s unclear how long protection lasts. Larger trials are needed to confirm if it prevents infection in real-world conditions. A universal vaccine is still years away. Yet this trial shows AI could help us get there faster.
