Colossal Biosciences Unveils Genetically Engineered 'Woolly Mouse'

The biotech company, backed by celebrity investors, showcases progress in gene editing as part of its ambitious de-extinction projects.

Colossal Biosciences revealed the 'woolly mouse,' a genetically engineered rodent with traits inspired by the extinct woolly mammoth, marking a step forward in de-extinction science.
The company, supported by high-profile investors like Tom Brady and Paris Hilton, aims to use similar techniques to eventually create mammoth-like elephants.
Critics argue that true de-extinction remains a distant goal, but Colossal emphasizes its focus on functional de-extinction by engineering core traits of extinct species for modern ecosystems.
The woolly mouse project demonstrates advancements in multiplex gene editing, combining ancient DNA with existing genetic variation to achieve predicted phenotypes.
Colossal positions its work as not only scientific innovation but also an educational tool to inspire future generations and address biodiversity conservation challenges.