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While extinction is irreversible, researchers at Colossal Biosciences are pioneering efforts to genetically modify living species to exhibit characteristics reminiscent of extinct animals, such as the woolly mammoth.
The woolly mammoth, which once inhabited the frigid landscapes of Europe, Asia, and North America, vanished approximately 4,000 years ago.
In 2021, Colossal garnered attention with its ambitious goal to resurrect both the woolly mammoth and, later, the dodo bird. In a significant development last year, the company announced progress toward reviving the long-extinct Tasmanian tiger.
Colossal’s approach centers on analyzing the ancient DNA of these species to identify critical traits, with CEO Ben Lamm emphasizing the objective to integrate these traits into existing living animals.
In February 2025, Colossal shared images of genetically modified mice featuring long, thick, woolly hair, dubbed the “Colossal woolly mouse,” created in their Dallas laboratory.
While the findings were disseminated online, they have yet to undergo peer review or formal publication in scientific journals.
Vincent Lynch, a biologist from the University of Buffalo not involved in the study, acknowledged the technological sophistication of the achievement, noting that advancements like CRISPR have streamlined genetic engineering since its inception in the 1970s.
The research team examined extensive DNA data from mice to identify genetic factors influencing hair texture and fat metabolism. According to Beth Shapiro, Colossal’s chief scientist, these genetic variations already exist, but their team successfully combined them into a single organism, reflecting mutations likely associated with cold adaptation, a vital trait for survival in the Ice Age.
Expert Opinions on the Viability of “De-Extinction”
Colossal commenced its work with mice to validate their techniques before considering similar modifications in Asian elephants, the closest living relatives of woolly mammoths.
However, any plans involving Asian elephants face significant challenges due to the species’ endangered status, with Lamm highlighting the extensive regulatory hurdles ahead. To date, Colossal has raised over $400 million to support its initiatives.
Lamm articulated the potential risks and ethical considerations surrounding synthetic biology during a previous CBS News Boston interview, emphasizing the necessity for a careful assessment of both intended and unintended outcomes.
Nevertheless, many independent experts express skepticism about the viability of true “de-extinction.” Christopher Preston from the University of Montana commented on the distinction between modifying an existing species and genuinely reviving an extinct one, arguing that such genetic alterations might merely transform Asian elephants rather than recreate woolly mammoths.
Despite these critiques, the advancements in precise gene editing hold promise for applications in conservation and agricultural sciences, noted Bhanu Telugu from the University of Missouri, who was not involved in the research. Telugu praised Colossal’s innovations in targeting specific genes as a significant step forward in biotechnology.
Lamm also indicated that these techniques could eventually lead to breakthroughs in human health, as evidenced by the formation of two health-related spin-off companies from Colossal.
Referring to the possibility of reviving woolly mammoths, author Ben Mezrich highlighted in a 2017 CBS News interview the potential medical insights that could emerge, particularly regarding cancer prevention, by studying the genetic makeup of elephants and their unique resistance to the disease.
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www.cbsnews.com