Scientists at Stanford University have used an artificial intelligence model trained on millions of DNA sequences to design new viral genomes. According to Forbes, 16 of the AI-generated viruses successfully infected E. coli in laboratory experiments. The model was then used to generate new genetic sequences that scientists synthesized and tested in the laboratory. Of the AI-designed genomes that were synthesized and tested, 16 produced functional bacteriophages capable of infecting E. coli. Biosecurity experts have warned that the ability to generate functional biological sequences could eventually lower barriers to designing harmful pathogens if adequate safeguards are not introduced.