Capgemini unveils AI breakthrough to boost bioeconomy

New methodology may boost innovation in protein engineering

Capgemini has introduced a pioneering generative AI-driven methodology for protein engineering, utilising a specialised protein large language model (pLLM) to predict the most effective protein variants.

With a patent pending, this groundbreaking approach is set to accelerate the global bioeconomy and drive key scientific breakthroughs across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture and environmental science.

By cutting the datapoints required for designing protein sequences by over 99%, the methodology leverages generative AI to significantly reduce the time and resources needed for research and development.

This innovation allows Capgemini clients to lower the development costs of biosolutions and explore previously unviable business cases.

The methodology, created in the bespoke gen AI-driven biotechnology lab of Cambridge Consultants, part of the Capgemini Group, has been successfully applied to several critical use cases. These include a 60% increase in plastic degradation efficiency and reduced experimentation for faster innovation in bioengineering applications.

The new approach enabled the enhancement of the cutinase enzyme, boosting its ability to break down PET plastic by 60%. This breakthrough supports sustainability efforts and reduces waste management costs.

Additionally, generative AI predictions allowed Capgemini to cut down the number of experiments needed to identify an improved variant of the Green Fluorescent Protein benchmark, achieving a brightness level seven times greater than the natural jellyfish protein, which accelerates drug discovery and enhances diagnostic tools.

Roshan Gya, CEO of Capgemini Invent, stated that the proprietary generative AI-driven approach positions Capgemini to help clients significantly accelerate their bio-journey and address humanity’s most pressing challenges.

This new methodology is described as faster, more cost-effective and opening new opportunities for clients to develop innovative bio-based solutions and contribute to the growth of the bioeconomy. Capgemini aims to drive technological advances in this rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field, leveraging its expertise and adaptability.