SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.– Twist Bioscience Corporation (NASDAQ: TWST), a mid-cap growth and value biotechnology company, announced the publication of a peer-reviewed paper in Science titled “Strengthening nucleic acid biosecurity screening against generative protein design tools.” The study, led by Microsoft with contributions from a consortium of scientific and industry experts including the International Gene Synthesis Consortium, underscores the need to adapt biosecurity screening practices as artificial intelligence advances protein design capabilities.
The publication emphasizes the effectiveness of existing biosecurity practices for detecting known proteins and sequences, while also noting the necessity of evolving safeguards as AI tools generate novel sequences. Through a collaborative red-teaming exercise, the study revealed that AI-designed protein variants of toxins and viral proteins could evade standard screening software. Although these sequences were digital only and their pathogenic potential is unknown, the findings prompted the development of improved detection protocols and novel strategies to strengthen biosecurity.
“Since the inception of Twist, we have developed and advanced stringent biosecurity screening methods and standards in parallel with our commercial offerings,” said Emily M. Leproust, CEO and co-founder of Twist Bioscience. “For known proteins and sequences, industry best practices for biosecurity screening are robust and effective. However, as AI capabilities evolve, screening practices must evolve just as quickly. Together with Microsoft, we are anticipating next steps to help guide the industry toward responsible scientific progress.”
“As AI opens new frontiers in the life sciences, we have a shared responsibility to continually improve and evolve safety measures,” said Dr. Eric Horvitz, Chief Scientific Officer of Microsoft and co-lead author of the study. “This research highlights the importance of foresight, collaboration, and responsible innovation. By partnering with Twist and other organizations in the synthetic DNA space to proactively identify and mitigate biosecurity risks, we help ensure that the benefits of AI in biology and medicine are realized safely.”
The study demonstrates that intentional, iterative improvements in screening—supported by collaboration among industry leaders, government agencies, academic researchers, and technology companies—are critical to ensuring safe and responsible research. Twist’s leadership in both policy engagement and technical biosecurity solutions reinforces its commitment to advancing innovation while safeguarding public health. (Source: IANS)
