Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotech company, has raised $200 million to further its groundbreaking efforts in de-extinction. The company aims to use genetic engineering to resurrect iconic species like the woolly mammoth, thylacine (Tasmanian tiger), and dodo. This ambitious project combines cutting-edge science with conservation efforts, capturing global attention.
How They Plan to Do It
Colossal Biosciences uses CRISPR gene-editing technology to splice DNA from extinct species with their closest living relatives. Here's how:
1. Woolly Mammoth: DNA from frozen mammoth remains is combined with that of the Asian elephant, its closest relative, to create a hybrid that could thrive in Arctic conditions.
2. Thylacine: The Tasmanian tiger's genetic material is reconstructed using preserved specimens, with its genome inserted into cells from similar marsupials like the dunnart.
3. Dodo: Genetic material from dodo remains is compared to pigeons, particularly the Nicobar pigeon, to reintroduce traits unique to the extinct bird.
Why Bring Them Back?
Ecosystem Restoration: The reintroduction of species like the woolly mammoth could help restore balance in ecosystems. For instance, mammoths could revive Arctic grasslands, reducing permafrost thaw and combating climate change.
Biodiversity Preservation: Reviving extinct species can contribute to restoring ecosystems that relied on them, potentially aiding modern conservation efforts.
Scientific Advancement: The project advances genetic engineering, opening doors to medical and agricultural innovations.
Challenges and Ethical Concerns
Ecological Impact: Critics question how reintroduced species will interact with current ecosystems and species.
Ethical Dilemmas: Concerns include animal welfare, the resources required for these projects, and whether funding could be better spent on protecting endangered species.
Feasibility: Successfully creating and sustaining these species outside a lab remains a major challenge.
What’s Next?
Colossal Biosciences plans to begin testing hybrid embryos within the next few years. If successful, the woolly mammoth could return to Arctic tundras by 2028, followed by efforts to revive the thylacine and dodo.
Conclusion
While the idea of resurrecting extinct species captures the imagination, it also raises significant scientific and ethical questions. Colossal Biosciences’ efforts are poised to redefine conservation and genetics, showing how technology can blur the lines between the past and future of biodiversity.
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