AI-driven lab in China automates DNA experiments from text prompts

A new AI-driven laboratory in China can autonomously design and execute complex biology experiments, including DNA synthesis and sequencing, from a simple text prompt. The system, called AutoDNA, represents a significant step toward fully self-driving labs that require minimal human intervention. The facility at Shanghai Jiao Tong University uses robotic arms to operate over 20 types of instruments and complete thousands of operations per project. A team of AI agents handles the entire experimental process from start to finish, with humans only needed to refresh reagents and service hardware, according to a report published in Nature. The system is notable for its high degree of autonomy and ability to integrate diverse lab equipment, researchers say. While labs have long used automation for specific tasks, AutoDNA was designed from the ground up with AI in mind, addressing the challenge of complex workflows that typically require human experts to configure instruments.