A study published in Nature has revealed that scientists successfully used an AI model called Evo to create 16 new viruses in a laboratory setting. Researchers trained AI to interpret genetic sequences and use that knowledge to generate entirely new viruses capable of self-replication, as reported by Stuff. However, experts are also concerned that the same technology could eventually be used to develop pathogens capable of causing widespread harm. One proposed response is to strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention, a treaty that has prohibited the development, production and stockpiling of biological weapons since 1975. Some suppliers already screen genetic sequences, although research has suggested AI could potentially be used to disguise problematic orders.