Colossal Biosciences asserts it has resurrected the dire wolf, sparking excitement on social media. However, the reality is more complicated and potentially misleading. The company edited modern grey wolves' genomes using ancient DNA, creating genetically modified animals rather than true de-extinct species. Critics argue this approach diverts attention from real biodiversity crises and emphasizes flawed narratives of success. The project has also caused concerns, as it is being leveraged to justify cuts to endangered species protections, raising ethical questions in the scientific community and among conservationists.
Colossal claims it has "successfully restored a once-eradicated species through the science of de-extinction" for the "first time in human history" but this is incorrect.
To see this work being done with such a casual disregard not only for the truth but for life itself is genuinely abhorrent to me.
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