Scientists Aim to Revive the Extinct Dire Wolf Through Gene Editing
Scientists are on the brink of a groundbreaking achievement as they aim to bring back the extinct dire wolf, a species that roamed North America until around 10,000 years ago. The initiative, spearheaded by the biotechnology company Colossal, involves using advanced gene-editing techniques to recreate the dire wolf. This ambitious project has sparked both excitement and controversy, drawing attention from various media outlets and public figures, including podcast host Joe Rogan.
Colossal's approach involves reconstructing the dire wolf's genome and then using CRISPR technology to edit the genes of a closely related species, such as the gray wolf, to match those of the dire wolf. While the scientific community debates the ethical implications of such de-extinction efforts, the potential to reintroduce this iconic predator into modern ecosystems is a topic of intense discussion.
The project has not only captured the imagination of scientists but also the public, with Joe Rogan expressing strong support for the initiative on his podcast. As the project progresses, it raises questions about the balance between technological advancement and ecological responsibility.
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How did they de-extinct dire wolves?
A biotech company says it has bred three animals with key physical features of the dire wolf — a species that has been extinct for more than 12,000 years. Colossal Biosciences says it used novel gene-editing technology to alter gray wolf DNA that led to the birth of the pups.
Was Dire Wolf brought back to life?
Dallas-based Colossal Biosciences announced it has successfully created three dire wolf pups using ancient DNA and gene-editing technology. The company extracted DNA from fossils up to 72,000 years old to recreate the extinct species, which disappeared about 12,500 years ago.
When was the dire wolf extinct?
The dire wolf, which went extinct 12,500 years ago, revived by biotech company.
What's different about a dire wolf?
According to Colossal, at first glance, dire wolves — their formal, scientific name is Aenocyon dirus — appeared more heavily built, with thicker legs, broader heads and shoulders, a stockier frame, and a more pronounced snout.
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