OpenAI and Retro Biosciences Use GPT-4b Micro to Enhance Longevity Science by Re-engineering Yamanaka Factors

Jan 17, 2025, 06:37 PM

OpenAI has collaborated with Retro Biosciences to develop an AI model named GPT-4b micro, aimed at enhancing longevity science. The model focuses on re-engineering Yamanaka factors, a set of proteins crucial for converting regular cells into stem cells. This collaboration, which began about a year ago, is part of Retro's broader goal to extend the human lifespan by a decade. The model has been used to suggest modifications to the Yamanaka factors, resulting in versions that are reportedly more than 50 times as effective in cellular reprogramming. OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, who personally invested $180 million in Retro in 2022, did not directly participate in the project. The companies plan to publish their research findings, although the model remains a demonstration rather than a product available for public use.