# AI-designed enzymes can cut disease‑related proteins

> Researchers used AI tools to create proteases that target specific proteins, showing activity against Alzheimer‑linked proteins.

Oossa · 2026-10-14 · https://oossa.com/en/ai-designed-enzymes-can-cut-disease-related-proteins

Scientists at the University of Washington, led by David Baker, used AI‑based design tools to build new proteases that cut chosen protein sequences. They started from a zinc protease and a cysteine protease, redesigning the rest of each enzyme with RFdiffusion2 and ProteinMPNN. After testing dozens of variants, some designs cut target proteins in cells, including proteins tied to Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia. The best versions were up to 10‑fold more active than the original designs.

## The facts

- The study was published on Oct 14, 2026.
- One zinc‑protease design showed a 10‑fold increase in activity and could cut Alzheimer‑related proteins.

## Why it matters

If refined, such AI‑designed enzymes could become tools for treating protein‑misfolding diseases.

## Sources & references

1. [Researchers use AI to design proteins that cut up other proteins](https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/10/researchers-use-ai-to-design-proteins-that-cut-up-other-proteins/) – Ars Technica, 2026-10-14

Last updated: 2026-10-14