AI Biodefense Startup Valthos Launches With $30 Million, OpenAI Backing
Valthos, a biodefense startup, emerged from stealth with $30 million in funding from OpenAI's Startup Fund, Lux Capital, and Founders Fund. The company aims to leverage artificial intelligence to detect and neutralize biological threats faster than traditional systems.
Led by former Palantir executive Kathleen McMahon and a team of AI and neuroscience experts, Valthos focuses on real-time pathogen identification and response. The launch follows a RAND report warning of governments' unpreparedness for AI-driven biological crises.
"Of all AI applications, biotechnology has the highest upside and most catastrophic downside," the company stated, emphasizing the urgency of their mission.