Reimagining the Dire Wolf: Colossal’s Breakthrough in Canid De-Extinction

This Rolling Stone article spotlights Colossal Biosciences’ latest milestone in its dire wolf de-extinction project: the birth of three gene-edited pups, Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi, carrying ancient canid traits modeled on the extinct dire wolf. The team used advanced gene-editing techniques to introduce dozens of targeted edits, aiming to recreate phenotypic and functional characteristics found in dire wolf specimens. The article delves into Colossal’s long-term goal of developing a distinct, biologically informed proxy species while also exploring the ethical and scientific debate surrounding the project. Experts weigh in on the challenges of reintroducing extinct traits without ancient DNA and the implications of creating novel lineages. Ultimately, the story captures how Colossal’s work is not just about bringing species back—it’s about pioneering new conservation technologies in the genomic era.

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