Scientists have taken an exciting step towards bringing the woolly mammoth back to life by creating genetically modified “woolly mice.” This breakthrough, achieved by Colossal Biosciences, is part of their ambitious plan to resurrect the woolly mammoth by 2028.
The researchers used advanced genetic techniques to modify hair-growth genes in mice. These changes led to the creation of small rodents with thick, long fur that resembles the iconic coat of woolly mammoths. This unique fur helped these ancient creatures survive the cold climates of the last Ice Age.
A study detailing their findings was published on BioRxiv. The research focused on genes that control hair texture and density, traits essential for surviving in Arctic environments. The project began less than a year ago, and the team quickly designed and tested these modified mice.
Colossal’s co-founder, Ben Lamm, said he was surprised by how cute the woolly mice turned out. Although these mice are a small step, they provide important insights for future work on Asian elephants, the closest relatives of mammoths.
To create the woolly mice, the team modified seven genes, focusing on attributes like fur length and texture. Instead of inserting mammoth DNA, they adapted existing mouse genes to mimic traits found in woolly mammoths. For instance, they blocked a gene called FGF-5, responsible for regulating hair length. This led to the mice growing three times longer fur than typical lab mice.
The researchers also made changes to two other genes, enhancing the fur’s waviness and thickness. As scientist Vincent Lynch noted, this work proves that multiple genetic changes can be integrated into a single organism to create mammoth-like qualities.
Using mice for this type of research is beneficial because of their quick reproduction. Mice have a short gestation period of about 20 days, unlike elephants, which take about 22 months. This rapid cycle allows scientists to test genetic changes more quickly, paving the way for similar modifications in elephants later on.
However, challenges remain in applying these methods to Asian elephants. One significant hurdle is that elephants have much sparser hair compared to mice. Even if genetic edits are successful, the resulting fur in elephants might not be as thick or insulating as it is in woolly mammoths.
Another issue is the complexity of modifying elephant embryos. Researching gene edits in elephants involves advanced technologies and raises ethical questions about genetic engineering and conservation.
Colossal’s next step is to see if the woolly mice can handle cold temperatures better than regular mice. They plan to conduct tests to determine how well these genetic changes provide insulation against the cold.
If the woolly mice can tolerate cold better, it will further support the idea that similar adaptations could be made in elephants. Despite the obstacles ahead, Colossal is hopeful and aims to produce the first hybrid calves by 2028. These calves could be reintroduced into Arctic habitats, helping restore ecosystems and combat climate change.
The woolly mice creation is just a small part of a larger goal, marking a significant milestone on the journey to bring back the woolly mammoth. The future is uncertain, but the project is advancing—one woolly mouse at a time.
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