Colossal Biosciences Achieves Breakthrough in Dodo Bird De-Extinction
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Colossal-Biosciences-Makes-Major-Breakthrough-in-Dodo-Bird-De-Extinction-0-091625-26100d5ea1224c2c9eaf4bc2fa4ce021.jpg)
Colossal Biosciences, a leading bioengineering company, has recently achieved a significant breakthrough that could pave the way for the de-extinction of the dodo bird. The company announced on Wednesday, Sept. 17, that its team successfully cultured pigeon primordial germ cells (PGCs), a crucial step in the process of reviving the extinct bird. This groundbreaking achievement marks the first time in history that PGC culture has been successful beyond chickens and geese, showcasing a remarkable advancement in avian science and de-extinction research.
CEO and co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, Ben Lamm, along with the company’s chief science officer, Dr. Beth Shapiro, shared insights on what this milestone means for the project. Lamm highlighted the significance of this development, stating, “It’s very, very hard to do, and we did this in 18 months, so this was a very, very big step. This was a huge technology unlock for the dodo.” The successful culturing of pigeon PGCs now provides Colossal with a clearer timeline for the potential return of the dodo bird.
Lamm expressed confidence in the project’s progress, stating, “Now that we’ve got to PGCs, we are confident that in the next five to seven years we can see a dodo, but hopefully that’ll go even faster once we get into the editing.” Alongside this achievement, Colossal Biosciences also secured an additional $120 million in funding, bringing its total raised amount to $555 million with a valuation exceeding $10 billion. These resources will support the expansion of the Avian Genetics Group and further genome sequencing efforts.
Moreover, the company is investing in conservation programs beyond the dodo, particularly focusing on the preservation of its revived dire wolf population. Three dire wolves – Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi – currently inhabit a secure 2,000-acre preserve and are displaying natural pack behaviours, indicating successful reintroduction into the wild. Lamm mentioned the possibility of future generations being released onto larger preserves as part of ongoing conservation efforts.
While Colossal’s achievements have sparked excitement, there are concerns regarding the implications of de-extinction projects on animal welfare and ecosystems. Shapiro emphasised that Colossal’s work aims to preserve species and enhance ecosystem resilience. She pointed to the positive impact of reintroducing species, citing the example of wolves in Yellowstone National Park, where their presence led to significant ecological changes.
Colossal Biosciences’ de-extinction initiatives extend beyond the dodo bird and dire wolves to include mammoths and moas. The company aims to merge cutting-edge science with cultural imagination and ecological necessity, reshaping conservation strategies. As the prospect of a revived dodo bird roaming Mauritius within five years looms closer, Lamm and Shapiro underscore the broader implications of their work on conservation and scientific advancement.
Acknowledging the complexities and potential controversies surrounding de-extinction projects, Lamm underscored the importance of open dialogue and education. Shapiro highlighted the impact of Colossal’s work on inspiring young people to pursue careers in genetics and conservation, signalling a positive shift in scientific aspirations. With ongoing developments in de-extinction technology, Colossal Biosciences is at the forefront of reshaping conservation efforts and ecological restoration for future generations.