Extinction involves using genetic editing and stem cell technology to recreate extinct animals. Colossal plans to achieve this goal by editing the DNA of stem cells from Asian elephants to resemble that of mammoths. But this process depends on Colossal’s ability to produce elephant stem cells, a hurdle it has already overcome.
The company acknowledges that there are big challenges ahead. Elephant biology presents unique obstacles: a gestation period of almost two years, a long road to sexual maturity, and a complex social structure. Additionally, ensuring the well-being of the revived mammoth population in a suitable habitat is a critical question that has not yet been answered.
Despite significant obstacles, Colossal continues its operations. Newly created elephant stem cells have important implications for more than just fighting extinction. These cells can serve as a valuable tool for studying elephant biology, development, and diseases such as cancer.
Additionally, similar methods can be applied to protect endangered species such as the northern white rhino.
Source: Ferra
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