Scientists have created thick-furred mice resembling extinct woolly mammoths using genetic engineering. (Source: Colossal Biosciences) A groundbreaking experiment was carried out in the world of science. Researchers from Colossal Biosciences, a biotechnology company based in the US, are working to bring back woolly mammoths that went extinct around 10,000 years ago at the end of the Ice Age and were considered completely extinct about 4,000 years ago. The company aims to create new organisms carrying some characteristics of extinct animals through genetic engineering.

Previously known for plans to revive the dodo bird and the woolly mammoth, the company has now introduced a new species called “Colossal woolly mouse” by making genetic modifications in mouse embryos. Scientists identified genes related to fur tissue and fat metabolism by studying the DNA databases of mice. Beth Shapiro, Chief Scientist at Colossal, mentioned that each of these genetic variations “already exists in some living mice” but they have “combined all of them in a single mouse.”

Ben Lamm, the company’s co-founder and CEO, stated that the team is studying ancient mammoth genomes and comparing them with Asian elephants to determine genetic differences. He indicated that during this process, the team tested the accuracy of gene editing methods by producing thick-furred mice adapted to cold climates. Lamm said, “Although this study process did not accelerate, it was a moment to validate some theories for us.”

Lamm also noted that they will soon test this method on Asian elephants, and if successful, they expect the first woolly mammoth calf to be born by the end of 2028.