Colossal Biosciences has genetically engineered three wolf pups that resemble extinct dire wolves. The pups have long white hair, muscular jaws, and are on track to reach 140 pounds at maturity. Although dire wolves went extinct over 10,000 years ago, these pups have been created by modifying genes from living gray wolves using CRISPR technology. The pups physically resemble dire wolves, but may never learn the skills necessary to survive in the wild on their own.
Colossal has also cloned four red wolves using blood from wild wolves to increase genetic diversity in the captive population. This technology, while less invasive than other cloning techniques, still requires sedating a wild wolf for a blood draw.
Despite the advancements in genetic engineering, some scientists caution that bringing back extinct species like dire wolves may not have practical benefits on current landscapes. The recreated species may look similar to their extinct counterparts, but they may not be able to fulfill their ecological functions in today’s environment. However, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has praised the work as a “thrilling new era of scientific wonder.”
Overall, while these genetic engineering projects are groundbreaking, they may have limitations in terms of restoring extinct species to their natural habitats. The pups and cloned red wolves are examples of how science can be used to preserve endangered species and increase genetic diversity, but they may not be able to fully recreate extinct species in their original ecosystems.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
