Revolutionary Genetic Breakthrough: Scientists Create White-Haired Wolves Inspired by the Extinct Dire Wolf

Three genetically modified wolf pups, resembling the long-gone dire wolves, are currently living in a secure location in the U.S. This effort comes from Colossal Biosciences, a company focused on reviving lost species.

These wolf pups, aged between three and six months, display striking features: long white fur and powerful jaws. They already weigh around 80 pounds, with expectations to reach 140 pounds as adults. Researchers at Colossal have made this discovery while studying the ancient DNA of dire wolves, which disappeared over 10,000 years ago. Dire wolves were much larger than today’s gray wolves, their closest living relatives.

However, not everyone is convinced that this marks the return of dire wolves to North America’s landscapes anytime soon. Vincent Lynch, a biologist at the University at Buffalo, expressed skepticism. According to him, “All you can do now is make something look superficially like something else” — a reminder of the challenges in truly reviving extinct species.

Colossal scientists gathered crucial data from ancient DNA, including samples from a 13,000-year-old tooth found in Ohio and a 72,000-year-old skull fragment from Idaho. They used advanced CRISPR technology to alter blood cells from living gray wolves, modifying them at 20 different sites. This genetic material was then introduced into an egg cell from a domestic dog and later implanted into dog surrogates. After 62 days, the modified wolf pups were born.

In addition to the dire wolves, Colossal also announced the cloning of four red wolves. They extracted blood from the critically endangered red wolf population in the southeastern U.S. to improve genetic diversity, crucial for the species’ survival.

Experts see potential in this technology for broader conservation efforts. Christopher Preston, a wildlife expert at the University of Montana, noted that this method is less invasive compared to other cloning techniques. However, he cautioned that blood collection from wild wolves can still be tricky and often requires sedation.

Colossal’s CEO, Ben Lamm, mentioned that discussions with U.S. Interior Department officials have taken place to explore these initiatives further. Secretary Doug Burgum called this work a "thrilling new era of scientific wonder." Yet, many scientists, including Lynch, remind us of the complexities involved. They note that the ecological roles filled by dire wolves are not easily replicated in today’s environments.

This journey into genetic engineering raises important questions about the future of conservation and the ethical considerations tied to reviving ancient species. While the technology opens doors, the understanding of these species’ original roles in the ecosystem remains a significant challenge.

For further insights into this topic, you can check a study on genetic conservation efforts from National Geographic.

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