Subscribe now

Technology

AI speeds up design of new antibodies that could target breast cancer

An artificial intelligence has designed new versions of trastuzumab, an antibody treatment against breast cancer, in just a few days – existing methods take weeks or months

By Carissa Wong

3 March 2023

Transparent tumour tomography visualising tumour microenvironment, showing a mouse model for HER2-positive breast cancer

A visualisation of HER2-positive breast cancer in mice

Cultura Creative RF / Alamy Stock Photo

Artificial intelligence could develop unique antibody treatments against some forms of cancer, suggesting we could fast-track the development of new immunotherapies.

Antibodies are proteins found in our bodies that can bind to other proteins on pathogens or cancer cells. Some directly neutralise the threat, while others tag the pathogen or cancer cell so the immune system can locate and attack it.

Some antibodies have been turned into drugs that are used to treat people with some forms of cancer, but at present it can take…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop