Colossal Biosciences has successfully gene-edited mice to exhibit woolly mammoth-like features, marking a significant step towards potential de-extinction of the species. The modified mice, dubbed the Colossal Woolly Mouse, display shaggy fur and golden coats thanks to targeted genetic edits. By utilizing their understanding of mouse genetics rather than directly using mammoth DNA, the scientists aimed to mimic mammoth traits while avoiding pitfalls of evolutionary divergence. Additionally, they focused on ancient mammoth genome analysis to find key genes involved in cold adaptation, with experiments yielding varied fur types among the edited cohorts.
Colossal Biosciences has developed gene-edited mice that exhibit mammoth-like characteristics, showcasing their potential to bring back woolly mammoths by modifying Asian elephants.
The Colossal Woolly Mouse features long, frizzy, golden fur and demonstrates the gene edits the company intends to apply on a larger scale, specifically targeting Asian elephants.
Colossal's approach does not merely insert mammoth genes into mice but builds upon well-understood mouse genetics, taking into account 200 million years of evolutionary divergence.
Researchers identified critical mammoth genes from ancient genomes influencing both hair type and fat metabolism, experimenting with numerous combinations to create varied mouse phenotypes.
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