Reviving the Woolly Mammoth: A Step Toward Climate Solutions
Genetically modified mice with “mammoth-like traits” could pave the way for the resurrection of woolly elephants, potentially playing a crucial role in combating global warming. Colossal Biosciences, a pioneering research company based in the United States, announced on Tuesday that they have successfully engineered mice with eight genetic modifications that bestow them with characteristics reminiscent of the extinct woolly mammoth, such as longer and curlier fur.
The company believes this groundbreaking experiment is a significant milestone toward their ultimate ambition: to create herds of mammoth-like creatures, including elephants, that are adapted to thrive in the frigid arctic tundra. These creatures would not only survive but also promote the growth of grasslands through their grazing habits, which could help sequester carbon dioxide—a greenhouse gas that significantly contributes to climate change. According to Colossal, this initiative could ultimately reduce the carbon emissions released from thawing arctic permafrost.
Ben Lam, the co-founder and CEO of Colossal, stated, “We are on track to have the first cold-adapted elephant by 2028, with the expectation of creating the first embryos by the end of 2026. Over time, we aim to establish an entire lineage of cold-adapted elephants that can eventually be reintroduced into the wild, allowing them to interbreed with their natural counterparts.”
The experiment focused on modifying seven genes in mice linked to hair growth, along with a mammoth gene aimed at increasing body fat. While the modified mice displayed altered, wool-like fur, researchers did not observe any impact from the fat-increasing gene.
Nevertheless, the researchers at Colossal assert that these genetically modified mice serve as a valuable platform for testing the safety and effectiveness of various genetic modifications before shifting their focus to elephants. Professor Beth Shapiro, the company’s chief science officer, expressed her enthusiasm, stating that validating the project’s potential is “incredibly exciting.” Colossal is also engaged in additional projects involving embryo development and artificial wombs for the genetically modified elephants.
“We are only making minor adjustments to their DNA code,” she explained. “The elephants will be born to mothers who will see them as their own, as they will resemble them significantly, apart from their increased hair and enhanced ability to withstand colder climates.” Ms. Shapiro also emphasized that the company plans to reintroduce other extinct species, such as the Dodo and the Tasmanian Tiger, to restore lost ecological niches, thereby enhancing biodiversity in the environment.
In addition to their ambitious goals, Colossal is developing genetic tools, such as a vaccine to protect elephants from a deadly virus and creating genetically modified quolls—an Australian marsupial capable of resisting the neurotoxins produced by the invasive cane toad. These efforts are already contributing to the preservation of endangered species.
Weighing the Potential Benefits Against Ethical Concerns
Analysis by Tom Bawden
The prospect of creating a new generation of woolly elephants may have positive implications for the climate, as their grazing could promote the growth of CO2-absorbing grasslands. However, the ethical considerations surrounding the creation of these animals are complex and multifaceted.
- If we consider humans as the baseline, the argument for editing human DNA to cure hereditary diseases, such as Huntington’s, is often deemed compelling. Yet, there are many who oppose such interventions, fearing they could lead to a slippery slope.
- The opposition is even stronger against the concept of “designer babies,” where genetic modifications could be made for cosmetic purposes, such as eye or hair color.
- When it comes to animals, while some may perceive the risks as less significant than those for humans, ethical concerns persist—especially when genetic modifications are not aimed at curing diseases.
Critics may argue that the creation of woolly elephants is unnecessary, warning of potential unforeseen consequences, such as genetic alterations that work in mice but could lead to abnormalities and suffering in elephants. Additionally, the introduction of these animals into ecosystems where they previously did not exist may disrupt existing wildlife and habitats.
