A $10B Startup Wants to Bring Back the Woolly Mammoth and Dodo Birds – Casson Living – World News, Breaking News, International News

A B Startup Wants to Bring Back the Woolly Mammoth and Dodo Birds – Casson Living – World News, Breaking News, International News

Digital rendering of large woolly animal with tusks walking through creek
A digital illustration of the woolly mammoth, a species long gone from our planet. Courtesy Colossal Biosciences

Have you ever imagined a world where the woolly mammoth could once again roam the Earth? That vision may soon transform into reality. Colossal Biosciences, an innovative biotech startup, is disrupting the scientific landscape with its daring endeavor to revive extinct species.

With an impressive $435 million secured in funding over the last three years, including a recent $200 million injection from TWG Global, Colossal is laser-focused on making de-extinction a possibility. Under the leadership of entrepreneur Ben Lamm and biologist George Church, the company aims to resurrect three notable species: the woolly mammoth, the dodo bird, and the Tasmanian tiger. Utilizing pioneering technologies and a dedicated team of more than 170 scientists, Colossal is rewriting the genetic blueprints of these extinct animals to bring them back to life.

The revival process is a fascinating blend of ancient DNA, genetic material from living relatives, and advanced gene-editing techniques. For instance, did you know that the genetic makeup of a woolly mammoth shares a 99.6 percent similarity with that of the Asian elephant? It’s incredible how far science has come in exploring the possibilities of genetic engineering.

Colossal’s ambitions extend beyond mere resurrection. The company is actively researching the rewilding of these revived species, working alongside various stakeholders to facilitate their reintegration into natural habitats. Moreover, Colossal is broadening its horizons by investing in other technology ventures like Form Bio and Breaking, emphasizing conservation and sustainability.

With backing from notable investors such as Victor Vescovo and Peter Jackson, Colossal’s future seems filled with potential. What other extinct species might they pursue next? The era of de-extinction is upon us, and the excitement is palpable.

Woman and man pose in front of picture of a bird
Beth Shapiro and Ben Lamm serve as Colossal’s chief scientific officer and CEO, respectively. Courtesy Colossal Biosciences

Wondering when we might see the woolly mammoth again?

Colossal is currently in the gene-editing phase of its woolly mammoth project, meticulously working to integrate mammoth genes into Asian elephant cells. The company aims to introduce the first woolly mammoth calf by 2028—a goal that might seem ambitious, yet with Colossal’s commitment, it could very well come to fruition.

Once these species are successfully revived, Colossal intends to partner with landowners, Indigenous communities, and governmental bodies for their reintroduction into the wild. The ecological effects of rewilding can be significant, as demonstrated by the successful reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park.

However, Colossal’s vision encompasses more than just de-extinction. Through initiatives like the Colossal Foundation, the startup is actively backing research and conservation efforts, aiming to foster a more sustainable future. Who knows what other extinct species might be resurrected through Colossal’s groundbreaking innovations?

This $10B Texas Startup Wants to Bring Back Extinct Animals Through Gene-Editing