By outdoor-nature-child.com British computer scientist Professor Demis Hassabis recently captured public attention by winning a share of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his pioneering research on proteins, which are fundamental to life itself. At just 48, Hassabis co-founded the artificial intelligence firm that ultimately became Google DeepMind.
He worked alongside Professor John Jumper, 39, who also shares this prestigious award, along with Professor David Baker, 60, based in the United States. Their collaborative efforts have significantly advanced our comprehension of proteins present in every human cell.
Can you explain how a deeper understanding of proteins could lead to significant breakthroughs in medicine?
Absolutely! Gaining better insights into proteins could usher in major advancements in areas like fighting antibiotic resistance and developing enzymes capable of breaking down plastics. Hassabis and Jumper utilized artificial intelligence to predict the structures of nearly all known proteins, creating a groundbreaking tool known as AlphaFold2.
Why is it so important to understand the structure of proteins?
Proteins are made up of chains of amino acids that fold into distinct shapes, and these shapes are pivotal in determining their functions within the body. Traditionally, scientists have faced formidable challenges in predicting the shapes of millions of proteins, yet understanding these structures is vital for targeting and altering proteins—essential processes in medicine.
The Nobel Committee has referred to AlphaFold2 as a “complete revolution.” Can you elaborate on its significance?
Yes, AlphaFold2 is now being applied to 200 million proteins around the globe, greatly increasing the number of known protein structures. Before Hassabis and Jumper embarked on their research, only a tiny fraction of protein structures had been understood.
What can you tell us about the other recipient of the Nobel Prize?
That part of the award went to Professor Baker for what the committee deemed the “almost impossible feat” of designing new proteins. In 2003, Baker was a pioneer in constructing a new protein from amino acids, opening doors for the creation of proteins used in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and other critical applications.
How did Professor Baker react to the news of his award?
Baker, who is based at the University of Washington in Seattle, expressed overwhelming excitement and gratitude upon receiving the announcement. He joyfully recounted the moment, saying that he was initially asleep when the call came, and his wife “started screaming very loudly” after hearing the news.
How was the announcement of the winners made public?
The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences officially announced the winners during a press conference in Stockholm, Sweden. The total prize fund amounts to 11 million Swedish kronor (roughly £810,000), with Baker taking home half and Hassabis and Jumper sharing the remaining half.
Finally, could you tell us a bit about Demis Hassabis’ background?
Hassabis has a remarkable and varied background. He grew up in London with Greek-Cypriot and Singaporean parents and was recognized as a chess prodigy, attaining master status by age 13. He completed his A-levels at just 16, which led Cambridge University to suggest he take a gap year due to his youth. After earning his degree in computer science, he ventured into computer game design, garnering multiple awards before completing his PhD at University College London. In 2010, he co-founded DeepMind, which was acquired by Google in 2014. The company’s goal is to merge neuroscience with machine learning to create powerful algorithms applicable to a variety of challenges. His groundbreaking contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Nobel Prize in Chemistry.