Los Angeles, California – The ancient dire wolves, extinct for over 12,000 years, have made a remarkable comeback through the efforts of scientists at Colossal Biosciences. In what is being hailed as the world’s first de-extinction, the team successfully recreated the genetic makeup of the dire wolf from ancient DNA and modern gray wolves, resulting in the birth of three dire wolf pups named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi.
Using a process similar to the one that led to the cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1996, Colossal Biosciences pieced together clues from the fossil record to approximate dire wolf cells. By comparing genetic samples from dire wolf fossils to those of living wolf relatives, such as gray wolves, the scientists identified 20 key differences in 14 genes responsible for the dire wolves’ unique characteristics.
Through CRISPR gene-editing technology, the team made 20 edits to the 14 identified genes in cells collected from living gray wolves, resulting in the creation of “dire wolf cells.” These cells were then inserted into eggs from living gray wolves, leading to the birth of the dire wolf pups. The pups exhibited characteristics such as thick, white fur, larger teeth, and a characteristic howling, reminiscent of their ancient counterparts.
In addition to the dire wolf de-extinction, Colossal Biosciences has also announced the successful cloning of red wolves, the most critically endangered wolf species in the world. This achievement follows the unveiling of genetically engineered “woolly mice,” a significant milestone in the company’s project to bring back ice age titans like woolly mammoths by 2028.
The birth of the dire wolf pups signifies a major breakthrough in genetic engineering and conservation efforts, showcasing the potential for reviving extinct species and preserving biodiversity. The combination of ancient DNA and modern technology has opened up new possibilities in the field of de-extinction, paving the way for future projects aimed at restoring lost species to their natural habitats.