The Role of Transfer Learning in Gene Formers Learning

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Geneformer uses AI to virtually ask questions of simulated gene networks. It can take cells, take the set of genes that are expressed there, and delete one of them. Then it asks what does that do to the gene network within the cell? And what does that doing to the cell state? So for example, if we take a healthy cell and we delete a gene, does it move to a particular disease state? Or vice versa - in silico treatment analysis. Can we take a disease cell and delete a gene and see whether that moves it back towards the healthy state, which would indicate that that gene could be a candidate target for therapeutic intervention? Yeah. That's how Geneformer works

In this episode:

00:46 An AI that predicts gene interactions

Mapping the network of genes that control cellular processes can be difficult to do when gene-expression data is sparse, such as in rare diseases or those affecting tissues that are hard to clinically sample. To overcome this, a team has developed an artificial intelligence system trained on a large, general dataset, and used it to make predictions about gene interactions in data-limited situations. As a test-case they look at the heart condition cardiomyopathy, and show that the system can identify potential interactions that could represent new therapeutic targets.

Research article: Theodoris et al.

09:08 Research Highlights

Microbes that can break down persistent ‘forever chemicals’, and why intermolecular distances are the key to keeping gummy sweets chewy.

Research Highlight: Microbes take the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’

Research Highlight: Better gummy sweets are within reach, thanks to physics

12:06 Briefing Chat

We discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, how chronic stress can inflame the gut, and understanding how rocket launches might impact wildlife.

Nature News: Chronic stress can inflame the gut — now scientists know why

Nature News: Does the roar of rocket launches harm wildlife? These scientists seek answers

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