Colossal Biosciences Reveals Genetically Engineered Woolly Mice, Plans Mammoth Revival by 2028

Colossal Biosciences has introduced the Colossal Woolly Mouse, a genetically modified mouse designed to exhibit traits reminiscent of the woolly mammoth, marking a significant step in their de-extinction efforts. The company aims to leverage this development as a precursor to creating genetically engineered Asian elephants that can survive in cold climates, potentially leading to the resurrection of the woolly mammoth by 2028. Critics have raised concerns about the feasibility and scientific challenges of these ambitious claims, noting the complexities involved in moving from modified mice to full-sized mammoths. Colossal's CEO, Ben Lamm, is optimistic, stating that nearly 100 woolly mice have been produced and that testing for cold tolerance is underway. The company has raised significant funding, achieving a valuation of $10.2 billion, as it pursues projects to revive other extinct species like the dodo and Tasmanian tiger. Despite the excitement, experts caution that the timeline may be overly ambitious given the hurdles ahead in the de-extinction process.