Colossal scientists have successfully edited seven genes in mice embryos to create mice with long, thick, woolly hair, dubbing them the “Colossal woolly mouse.” The results have been posted online but not yet published in a journal or peer-reviewed. This technological feat, utilizing new gene editing technologies like CRISPR, has been praised by biologists for its efficiency and ease of use.
The scientists identified genes related to hair texture and fat metabolism by reviewing DNA databases of mouse genes. These genetic variations are already present in some living mice, but the researchers combined them all in a single mouse to create the woolly coat. The chosen traits were selected for their potential link to cold tolerance, a quality necessary for woolly mammoths to survive in icy environments.
While the focus has been on mice so far to confirm the success of the process, the ultimate goal is to potentially edit the embryos of Asian elephants, the closest living relatives to woolly mammoths. However, due to the endangered status of Asian elephants, there are significant regulatory challenges to navigate before any concrete plans can move forward.
Colossal, which has raised over $400 million in funding, is at the forefront of genetic engineering research and is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in creating genetically modified organisms with specific traits. The success of the woolly mouse experiment opens up new possibilities for conservation efforts and potentially resurrecting extinct species in the future.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
