Scientists from Colossal Biosciences have engineered a "woolly" mouse by integrating genetic traits from woolly mammoths and elephants, marking a significant step towards resurrecting the extinct species. By modifying seven genes, the lab-created mice exhibit adaptations suitable for colder climates, such as changes in coat color, texture, and thickness. Researchers utilized data from 121 mammoth and elephant genomes to identify crucial genes associated with hair characteristics and lipid metabolism. This achievement showcases advances in precise genome engineering and sets the foundation for complex genetic adaptations essential for potential de-extinction efforts.
Ben Lamm, co-founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, stated, "By engineering multiple cold-tolerant traits from mammoth evolutionary pathways into a living model species, we've proven our ability to recreate complex genetic combinations that took nature millions of years to create."
George Church, professor of genetics at the Wyss Institute and Harvard Medical School, noted, "The Colossal Woolly Mouse demonstrates remarkable progress we've made in precise genome engineering, including optimized delivery methods, innovative multiplexing, and combinations of gene-targeting strategies."
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