Woolly Mice: A Step Towards De-Extinction

Colossal Biosciences, known for its de-extinction projects, has created 'woolly mice' with long fur, mimicking a key trait of woolly mammoths. This was achieved by simultaneously editing seven genes related to hair growth. Using mice, rather than elephants, circumvents the ethical and logistical challenges associated with elephant gestation and reproduction. The success demonstrates a crucial step towards the company's flagship mammoth de-extinction project, highlighting the potential of gene editing in conservation efforts.