Scientists Claim Breakthrough in Reviving the Dire Wolf Species
Scientists Claim Breakthrough in Reviving the Dire Wolf Species Scientists Bring Back the Dire Wolf Using Ancient DNA and Cutting-Edge Gene Editing A species long believed lost to time has returned—at least in part. Dallas-based biotech company Colossal Biosciences has announced the successful creation of three dire wolf pups , calling it the world’s first successful de-extinction . Using ancient DNA, advanced cloning , and CRISPR gene editing , Colossal’s team modified gray wolf genes—those of the dire wolf’s closest living relative—to replicate key traits of the long-extinct predator. The result? Hybrid animals bearing a striking resemblance to the legendary dire wolf, Aenocyon dirus , which roamed North America over 12,000 years ago and inspired the dire wolves in Game of Thrones . “This is a massive milestone,” said Ben Lamm , Colossal’s CEO. “We took DNA from a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull—and made healthy dire wolf puppies.” The pups, two males and...