Biotech company declares significant advancement in mission to resurrect the dodo bird
In a groundbreaking development, Texas-based biotechnology firm Colossal Biosciences has made significant strides in genetically engineering a version of the dodo, a giant flightless bird that went extinct 400 years ago. The company's scientists have succeeded in culturing specialized cells from the rock dove (common pigeon) and are now using similar techniques to culture cells from the Nicobar pigeon, a closer relative to the dodo.
Colossal's latest advance has been described as a 'pivotal step' in the dodo project. The company's scientists have figured out a way to grow a vital type of cell, known as a primordial germ cell, from both the rock dove and the Nicobar pigeon. These edited cells are intended to develop into functional eggs and sperm.
Beth Shapiro, Colossal's chief science officer, stated that the company is now 'off and running' with the dodo project. The entire process of bringing back a dodo relative using surrogate chickens is estimated to take at least 5 to 7 years.
However, the prospect of bringing back extinct animals like the dodo has sparked debate. Critics argue that such attempts could only result in genetically modified, hybrid species. On the other hand, Cock van Oosterhout, a professor of evolutionary genetics, believes the real utility of Colossal's findings is in applying them to help endangered species recover. Modifying the genes of endangered species could help them adapt better to declining habitats or diseases.
Colossal's work attracts funders with deep pockets, allowing them to solve problems that have long eluded many academic researchers. The company has raised an additional $120 million in funding for its work, bringing the total to $555 million since launching in September 2021.
It's important to note that while genome editing is a significant part of Colossal's work, it is just one small piece of a much larger puzzle that is complex to solve. As Scott MacDougall-Shackleton, cofounder and director of the Advanced Facility for Avian Research, states, it is impossible to bring back extinct species. Technology cannot solve the biodiversity crisis; prevention of extinction and habitat loss is crucial.
Colossal previously sparked excitement and controversy by announcing the birth of three dire wolf pups using ancient DNA, cloning, and gene-editing technology. The company's dodo project continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of genetic engineering and conservation.
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