MIT researchers are launching a $3 million, three-year project to combat the escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) using a powerful combination of synthetic biology and artificial intelligence. Driven by antibiotic overuse, drug-resistant infections are rising while new antibacterial development stalls, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries. The multidisciplinary effort, sponsored by Jameel Research, will focus on designing programmable antibacterials – small proteins engineered to disable specific bacterial functions – delivered by engineered microbes. “This project reflects my belief that tackling AMR requires both bold scientific ideas and a pathway to real-world impact,” says James J. Collins, the Termeer Professor of Medical Engineering and Science at MIT. This innovative approach promises a more precise and adaptable alternative to traditional antibiotics, bolstering global health security.
Synthetic Biology & AI Target Antimicrobial Resistance
Researchers in the Department of Biological Engineering and Institute of Medical Engineering and Science are concentrating on designing small proteins capable of disabling specific bacterial functions, offering a targeted alternative to broad-spectrum antibiotics. This approach is particularly crucial given the disproportionate impact of AMR in low- and middle-income countries, where diagnostic limitations hinder effective treatment. The core of the project involves utilizing AI to create these designer molecules, which will then be manufactured and delivered by genetically engineered microbes. Mohammed Abdul Latif Jameel ’78 emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “antimicrobial resistance is one of the most urgent challenges we face today, and addressing it will require ambitious science and sustained collaboration.” Jameel Research views this collaboration as a continuation of their commitment to global health and a more resilient future.
$3 Million Jameel Research Funds Programmable Antibacterial Development
Jameel Research, part of the Abdul Latif Jameel International network, is sponsoring the initiative, which will concentrate on creating programmable antibacterials targeting critical pathogens. The project’s design incorporates engineered microbes to produce and deliver AI-designed small proteins, intended to disable specific bacterial functions—a departure from broad-spectrum antibiotic approaches. This strategy acknowledges the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) fueled by antibiotic overuse and misuse. The research builds upon a longstanding relationship between MIT and Abdul Latif Jameel, with a focus on translating scientific breakthroughs into tangible global health solutions.
antimicrobial resistance is one of the most urgent challenges we face today, and addressing it will require ambitious science and sustained collaboration.
Mohammed Abdul Latif Jameel ’78, chair of Abdul Latif Jameel
