Colossal Biosciences is embarking on a revolutionary journey to revive extinct species, with its sights set on delivering the first woolly mammoth calves within the next three years. The co-founder and CEO of Colossal, Ben Lamm, conveyed that the company plans to see its first mammal born completely ex utero—a living creature developed from an embryo outside the womb—within two years.

To achieve this goal, the company starts by experimenting with smaller mammals before progressing to larger species like elephants. This approach is intended to pave the way for successfully birthing woolly mammoths, marking a significant milestone in conservation efforts.

In a recent advancement, the Colossal Foundation announced a generous donation of $1.5 million to Dr. George Church’s lab at Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering. This partnership will explore the potential of artificial womb technology to ensure the survival of endangered species.

Artificial wombs hold great promise by enabling the growth of healthy embryos in controlled environments, thereby eliminating the dependence on surrogate mothers. Matt James, Executive Director of the Colossal Foundation, emphasized the dual significance of this technology as both a conservation necessity and a remarkable technological innovation.

While Colossal’s focus is not directed at human applications of artificial wombs, they recognize the implications this technology may have in the field of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Bringing back the iconic species

In addition to the woolly mammoth, Colossal plans to resurrect other notable extinct species, including the Tasmanian tiger and the dodo. Lamm noted that the Tasmanian tiger project is progressing swiftly thanks to developments in genetic engineering and cell line immortalization.

Conversely, the dodo project faces more complexity, requiring advancements in reaching primordial germ cells in pigeons, which are essential for producing reproductive cells. Colossal is optimistic that should their momentum continue, additional species could be de-extincted by 2028.

The company is actively collaborating with 17 universities worldwide to enhance their research and development efforts. Despite receiving criticism regarding the ethics of bringing back extinct species, Colossal has generally garnered positive feedback while also focusing on biobanking and protecting endangered species.

The impact of de-extinction efforts

The extinction of many animals is largely attributed to human activity, including overhunting and the introduction of invasive species. For instance, the woolly mammoth, Tasmanian tiger, and dodo all saw their populations plummet due to human influence.

Lamm highlights potential benefits associated with de-extinction and rewilding, citing the success of reintroducing giant tortoises in Mauritius, which led to the revival of lost plant species. Studying these once-extinct animals can also yield valuable insights into human health and ecological systems, even if they cannot be restored to their original forms.

The reintroduction of these species will commence in controlled environments, gradually transitioning to more expansive ecological preserves and eventually the wild.

Future aspirations

Colossal envisions a collaborative future with governments worldwide, concentrating not only on extinct species but also on critically endangered ones. Lamm expressed the goal of implementing biobanking strategies and nurturing populations of endangered species, essentially creating a safeguard for biodiversity.

Through these ambitious efforts, Colossal Biosciences aims to not just recreate lost species but to contribute to the greater good of global biodiversity, paving the way for a healthier ecosystem.

As the world grapples with biodiversity loss, the innovative work of Colossal may offer hope for conservation strategies, enabling us to reimagine the landscapes of both the past and the future.