Colossal Biosciences De-Extincts Dire Wolf

Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotech startup, announced the successful de-extinction of the Dire wolf, an animal extinct for over 10,000 years. Researchers used cloning and gene-editing techniques, based on ancient Dire wolf DNA samples and blood cells from a living Wolf, to birth three pups named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi. The genetic material was transferred to Dog egg cells, and embryos were carried by Dog surrogates. This achievement is hailed as a 'massive milestone' by Colossal Biosciences CEO Ben Lamm, demonstrating the company's de-extinction technology stack. The Dire wolves will live in a secure ecological preserve registered with the United States — United States Department of Agriculture and certified by American Humane Society. In addition to the Dire wolf project, Colossal Biosciences also cloned four Red wolves to enhance genetic diversity in the critically endangered species. George R. R. Martin and Peter Jackson are investors and collaborators, with Martin serving as a cultural adviser. While some experts, like Corey Bradshaw, express skepticism, viewing the pups as genetically modified Grey wolves rather than true Dire wolves, the company maintains its claim of de-extinction. The United States — United States Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum praised the work.