SAN FRANCISCO, California – In a groundbreaking announcement, Colossal revealed that its team of scientists have successfully edited seven genes in mice embryos, resulting in the creation of mice with long, thick, woolly hair. These genetically modified mice have been affectionately dubbed the “Colossal woolly mouse” by researchers. While the results have been made available online, they have yet to undergo the peer-review process by independent scientists.
According to Vincent Lynch, a biologist at the University of Buffalo, the editing of genes in mice embryos represents a significant technological advancement. Lynch, who was not involved in the study, noted that advancements such as CRISPR have streamlined the process of genetic engineering in mice, making it more efficient and accessible.
The team at Colossal scoured DNA databases containing mouse genes to pinpoint genes linked to traits such as hair texture and fat metabolism. By combining these genetic variations, which are naturally present in certain mouse populations, the researchers were able to create the “Colossal woolly mouse.” The decision to focus on these specific traits was influenced by their potential correlation to cold tolerance, a crucial attribute that allowed woolly mammoths to thrive in icy environments during the prehistoric era.
Colossal’s chief scientist, Beth Shapiro, explained that the initial experimentation with mice embryos serves as a preliminary step to validate the efficacy of their gene-editing technique. The ultimate goal is to eventually apply this technology to edit the embryos of Asian elephants, the living descendants of woolly mammoths. However, due to the endangered status of Asian elephants, the regulatory hurdles and ethical considerations are expected to complicate the process significantly. Colossal’s CEO, Ben Lamm, emphasized that despite the promising progress, extensive protocols and evaluations will be necessary before any further action can be taken.
The extensive $400 million in funding that Colossal has raised underscores the immense potential and implications of their research. By pushing the boundaries of genetic engineering and exploring the resurrection of extinct species, the team at Colossal is spearheading a new era of scientific innovation. While the journey towards reviving woolly mammoths remains arduous and uncertain, the development of the “Colossal woolly mouse” marks a pivotal advancement in genetic manipulation and evolutionary studies.