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Scientists Create “Woolly Mice” in Bid to Resurrect Mammoth Traits
Dallas, TX – Extinction may still be forever, but scientists at Colossal Biosciences are blurring the lines with their ambitious “de-extinction” projects. The biotech company, known for its headline-grabbing plans to revive the woolly mammoth and the dodo, has announced a new milestone: the creation of genetically modified “woolly mice.”
These extra-furry rodents, developed by editing seven genes in mouse embryos, sport thicker, longer hair reminiscent of their ancient mammoth counterparts. The research, posted online but not yet peer-reviewed, aims to demonstrate the feasibility of transferring key traits of extinct animals into living relatives.
Colossal CEO Ben Lamm acknowledges the science-fiction-like nature of the endeavor, but emphasizes the potential of these cutting-edge technologies. The company’s ultimate goal is to use similar techniques to introduce mammoth-like qualities into Asian elephants, the woolly mammoth’s closest living relatives.
However, this ambitious vision faces significant hurdles. Independent experts express skepticism about the concept of “de-extinction,” arguing that the resulting animals would be genetically modified elephants, not true mammoths. Christopher Preston, a wildlife expert at the University of Montana, notes, “You’re not bringing back the ancient past… you’re changing an Asian elephant.”
Further complicating matters, the endangered status of Asian elephants means any experiments involving them will face strict regulatory scrutiny. Lamm acknowledges these challenges, stating that “a lot of processes and red tape” must be navigated before any such plans can advance.
Despite the controversy, the research has garnered attention for its technical achievements. Vincent Lynch, a biologist at the University of Buffalo, describes the gene editing feat as “technologically pretty cool.” He notes that while genetically modifying mice is not new, CRISPR technology has significantly streamlined the process.
Colossal scientists focused on hair texture and fat metabolism in the woolly mice, believing these traits contribute to cold tolerance – crucial for survival in the prehistoric Arctic. Beth Shapiro, Colossal’s chief scientist, explains that while these genetic variations already exist in some mice, the team combined them in a single individual.
Beyond the “de-extinction” efforts, Colossal believes its gene editing technology has broader applications. The company has already launched two healthcare spin-offs, and Lamm suggests the same techniques could one day combat human diseases. He highlights the intriguing example of elephants’ apparent resistance to cancer, suggesting their genes may hold valuable clues for medical breakthroughs.
While the prospect of resurrected mammoths roaming the tundra remains distant, Colossal’s woolly mice represent a tangible step forward in the quest to harness the power of genetic engineering for conservation and beyond. However, ethical concerns and scientific skepticism continue to surround the company’s ambitious vision.