Attoplex and KAIST Collaborate on AI-Based PCR Primer Design

Attoplex Inc. and KAIST have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly develop an AI-based platform for designing PCR primers, as announced in a press release. This collaboration aims to improve the design of diagnostic reagents for high-risk pathogens, focusing on RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2, MERS, Zika, and Ebola.

The partnership will leverage "VPrimer," an algorithm developed by Professor Minsu Kim's team at KAIST, which analyzes thousands of variant sequences to design high-precision primer-probe sets. VPrimer boasts a mutation coverage of over 95% and has demonstrated higher specificity compared to designs from WHO-affiliated institutions.

KAIST will enhance the VPrimer algorithm and provide the AI-powered analytical platform, while Attoplex will focus on developing, manufacturing, and commercializing the diagnostic reagents. This collaboration aims to accelerate the global deployment of molecular diagnostic kits during pandemics, ensuring high sensitivity and specificity even for rapidly mutating pathogens.