Genetically engineered 'Dire wolves' bring extinct species closer
American biotechnology company Colossal Biosciences has announced the creation of wolves with traits of the extinct dire wolf, achieved through genetic engineering.
The company reported a breakthrough in genetic engineering. Scientists have successfully created wolves that possess traits of the prehistoric dire wolf, a species that went extinct over 10,000 years ago. The Polish Press Agency, citing the Associated Press, conveyed this information.
Colossal Biosciences revealed that three puppies, ranging from three to six months old, are located in a "safe place," the location of which remains a secret. Among them are two males, Romulus and Remus, and a female named Khaleesi. Dire wolves were much larger than their modern cousins, gray wolves, and gained popularity through the series "Game of Thrones".
As reported by Live Science, in order to reconstruct the genome of the dire wolf, scientists compared genetic samples with those of their living relatives, such as wolves, jackals, and foxes. This comparison allowed them to identify 20 key differences in 14 genes responsible for the distinctive traits of dire wolves, such as larger size, white fur, and specific howling.
Using blood samples from modern gray wolves, scientists made 20 gene edits to recreate the genetic sequences of their ancient ancestors. This process was successful. Colossal claims that the wolves they have created are "the world's first animals successfully revived after extinction."
Scientists' caution
Despite the company's enthusiasm, independent scientists approach the topic with caution. Vincent Lynch, a biologist at the University at Buffalo who did not participate in the study, explained that for now, it is only possible to recreate the superficial appearance of a species, rather than truly bring extinct animals back to life.
According to Live Science, although the birth of these dire wolves is regarded as groundbreaking, it is not the first "de-extinction." In 2003, scientists in Spain cloned an extinct species of wild goat, but the newborn survived for only a few minutes. Colossal Biosciences plans to continue its projects, including the revival of woolly mammoths by 2028.
