OpenAI's GPT-4b Micro Model Aims to Boost Longevity by Engineering Yamanaka Factors for Stem Cells

Jan 17, 2025, 07:11 PM

OpenAI, in collaboration with Retro Biosciences, has developed a new AI model named GPT-4b micro, aimed at enhancing longevity science through the engineering of proteins. This model focuses on re-engineering Yamanaka factors, proteins that can transform regular cells into stem cells, which are crucial for potential advancements in regenerative medicine and extending human lifespan. The project, which began about a year ago, was initiated after Retro Biosciences approached OpenAI. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has personally invested $180 million in Retro, which is working towards extending the human lifespan by 10 years. Preliminary results suggest that the AI model's suggestions have improved the effectiveness of the Yamanaka factors by more than 50 times, according to OpenAI. This development marks OpenAI's first foray into biological data and its first public claim of delivering unexpected scientific results, positioning it as a step towards artificial general intelligence (AGI).