LG AI Research has partnered with Seoul National University to develop an artificial intelligence model for predicting multistate protein structures, aiming to enhance drug discovery and disease research.
The collaboration, signed on February 5 at LG Science Park in Seoul, involves Prof. Min-Kyung Baek, a specialist in protein structure prediction. Baek previously co-developed “RoseTTAFold” with Prof. David Baker from the University of Washington, whose AI-based research earned him the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Protein structure prediction plays a critical role in understanding diseases and developing treatments. While existing AI models primarily focus on single protein structures, LG’s initiative targets the more complex challenge of multistate proteins—those that shift between different forms due to environmental and chemical factors.
LG AI Research aims to develop an AI model capable of addressing this challenge by the end of the year. According to the company, such advancements could lead to better insights into biological processes and accelerate new drug development.
“AI is a powerful tool for predicting protein structures, but its mechanisms remain largely unexplored,” said Prof. Min-Kyung Baek. “Through this collaboration, we aim to refine AI-based protein prediction with verification and experimentation.”
Soonyoung Lee, head of LG AI Research’s Bio Intelligence Lab, highlighted the potential impact on neurodegenerative diseases: “Protein structure complexity is central to conditions like Alzheimer’s. Developing AI capable of predicting multistate structures could improve our understanding of disease mechanisms and contribute to treatment breakthroughs.”
The project aligns with LG’s broader focus on AI-driven healthcare solutions. The company has been working with the U.S.-based Jackson Laboratory (JAX) since last year on predictive AI technologies for diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s and cancer.
LG Group Chairman and CEO Koo Kwang-mo recently emphasized the company’s commitment to biotechnology, stating in his 2025 address that LG aims to advance healthcare solutions and new medicines to improve lives.
Featured image credit: LG
