Scientists at Colossal Biosciences have reached a pivotal moment in their quest to resurrect the woolly mammoth. By using CRISPR gene-editing technology, they have engineered mice with mammoth-like traits, a significant step toward what they call “functional de-extinction.” These genetically modified rodents exhibit characteristics such as long, wavy fur and altered lipid metabolism—features crucial for surviving cold environments. The company views this as proof that complex genetic modifications can be successfully integrated into living organisms, setting the stage for future work on Asian elephants, the closest living relatives of woolly mammoths.
While Colossal’s researchers aim to create an Arctic-adapted elephant capable of restoring lost ecosystem functions, skeptics question the ecological consequences of such an endeavor. Experts caution that even if these mammoth-like creatures are successfully brought to life, their impact on modern ecosystems remains unpredictable. Kevin Daly, a paleogeneticist at University College Dublin, warns that reintroducing a long-extinct species could have unforeseen effects, highlighting the complexity of ecological interactions. This debate underscores the ethical and scientific challenges of de-extinction, raising concerns about whether such projects prioritize ecological restoration or commercial spectacle.
