Google’s new AI tool has cracked a 10-year problem that scientists took years to solve in just two days. Researchers at Imperial College London spent a decade figuring out how one type of superbug gains resistance to antibiotics, but when they gave Google’s AI tool the same question, it provided the answer in just two days.
The team led by José Penadés hypothesized that these viruses did this by taking genetic material from other bacteria-infecting viruses. Experiments confirmed their hypothesis, revealing a breakthrough mechanism in horizontal gene transfer. The AI returned suggestions that matched the researchers’ findings, showing its potential to analyze evidence and guide research.
This discovery highlights AI’s potential to revolutionize scientific research, saving time and increasing efficiency. However, controversy surrounds AI-assisted research, with some studies being irreproducible or fraudulent. To minimize these issues, scientists are proposing tools to detect AI misconduct and establishing ethical frameworks for accurate findings.
The use of AI in science is becoming increasingly important, but its benefits must be carefully evaluated. As researchers continue to explore the potential of AI, they must also address concerns about accuracy and reproducibility.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/googles-ai-co-scientist-cracked-10-year-superbug-problem-in-just-2-days