Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company seeking to bring back extinct species, has announced a breakthrough in its mission to revive the woolly mammoth. Instead of attempting to clone the iconic creature, researchers have created a “woolly mouse” – a lab-born animal with shaggy fur and cold-adapted traits.
By studying ancient mammoth DNA, scientists altered genes in mice to replicate mammoth-like characteristics. The goal is to make existing species more resilient in the face of biodiversity loss. Colossal claims that reintroducing extinct species can help the environment, such as by reducing Arctic permafrost thawing and releasing methane into the atmosphere.
Company co-founder Ben Lamm says, “Why leave nature to chance?” The company has raised hundreds of millions of dollars for its “de-extinction” goals, including from celebrities and the CIA. This development marks a step in Colossal’s pursuit of bringing back extinct species like the woolly mammoth.
Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/company-seeking-to-resurrect-the-woolly-mammoth-creates-a-woolly-mouse