Scientists Develop the Most Extensive Human Virus Protein Database Using AI
A new AI-powered database, Viro3D, offers the most comprehensive structural predictions of human and animal virus proteins, promising to accelerate virus research and vaccine development.
Researchers at the MRC-University of Glasgow Center for Virus Research, leveraging artificial intelligence, have launched Viro3D—a groundbreaking database featuring high-quality structural predictions for thousands of virus proteins from both human and animal viruses. This innovative, free, and searchable AI-powered platform provides an in-depth perspective on viral proteins, enabling scientists to explore virus origins, evolution, and structure with unprecedented detail. The database encompasses structural models for 85,000 proteins across 4,400 viruses, making it the largest of its kind and expanding existing knowledge by thirtyfold.
Viro3D's creation aims to accelerate research efforts against both longstanding endemic viruses such as hepatitis, HIV, and the common cold, as well as emerging pandemic threats like COVID-19. A recent publication in Molecular Systems Biology highlights that the database has already uncovered new insights, including evidence suggesting that a key SARS-CoV-2 protein may have originated from genetic exchange with ancestral herpesviruses.
This discovery underscores the potential of Viro3D to enhance our understanding of viral genetic history and protein function. Dr. Joe Grove emphasized that the platform offers a new lens on viruses, which are as ancient as cellular life itself, and could significantly expedite the development of antivirals and vaccines. While existing protein databases like AlphaFold have included viral proteins in limited capacity, Viro3D stands out by focusing explicitly on viruses, providing comprehensive structural data for thousands of proteins, thus revolutionizing viral research and intervention strategies.
The insights gained from Viro3D can aid in deciphering virus origins, tracking evolutionary pathways, and designing targeted treatments faster. As AI continues to develop, the database is expected to serve as a crucial resource for scientists aiming to combat infectious diseases more effectively, with the potential to impact public health worldwide.
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Prenatal Exposure to Foreign Languages Shapes Neonatal Brain Responses
A recent study shows that prenatal exposure to foreign languages can influence brain development in newborns, shaping how they process language from birth. This discovery highlights the brain's remarkable plasticity before birth and opens new possibilities for early language learning interventions.
Innovative Cord Blood Test Predicts Future Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Newborns
A novel cord blood testing method analyzing epigenetic markers offers promising potential to predict a newborn's risk of developing type 2 diabetes, enabling early prevention strategies. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-simple-newborn-diabetes.html
New Insights into the Origin of Peanut Antibodies in Humans
Scientists have uncovered the genetic mechanisms behind the development of peanut-specific IgG antibodies in humans, providing new pathways for allergy research and therapies. Learn more about how our immune system responds to food proteins from recent findings published in Science Translational Medicine.
Impact of Hospital Mergers on Obstetric Care in Rural Areas: A Recent Study
A recent study explores how hospital mergers affect obstetric services and maternal health outcomes in rural communities, revealing both challenges and potential benefits of healthcare consolidation.