Colossal Bioscience’s chief scientist, Beth Shapiro, said the company never claimed to have, an extinct species for over 12,000 years. The statement comes after the startup faces criticism for publicizing the birth of three genetically modified puppies, which would have characteristics of the prehistoric species.
“It is not possible to recreate something identical to an extinct species. What we did is transformative, it is a scientific innovation-but it is not a decistination,” Shapiro said in an interview published on Thursday (22) by New Scientist. She added that the company has always made it clear that the animals are mashed wolves with about 20 genetic editions inspired by the DNA of-terrible.
Colossal announced in April the birth of three modified puppies, created based on genetic fragments recovered from fossils found in the wells of La Brea in Los Angeles.
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The startup used a 13,000 -year -old tooth and a 72,000 -year skull, with a level of recovery of genetic material considered unprecedented. However, the original DNA was not inserted into the animals, serving only as a reference for editing the thunderstorm.
Despite the clarifications, scientists point out inconsistency between the technical discourse and the company’s advertising material, which used expressions such as “dextination” and “rebirth” to describe the project.
Shapiro also responded to criticism that Colossal’s project would minimize the need to protect endangered species. “Now, suddenly, this has become justification so we don’t care anymore. It’s a dangerous and wrong interpretation,” he said.
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The startup behind the controversy
Founded in 2021 by businessman Ben Lamm and Harvard University George Church, Colossal Biosciences are headquartered in Texas, USA, and acts in the application of cutting -edge biotechnology to modify the genome of today -based species based on ancient DNA.
The company claims to seek the restoration of animals with relevant ecosystem paper, such as lady mammoths, tigers-tasmania (tilacinos) and dodôs.
With investments that total US $ 435 million, Colossal brings together renowned scientists and celebrities on its advice, including George RR Martin, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Brady and Steve Aoki.
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The startup’s proposal, however, remains surrounded by ethical, scientific and environmental debates on the limits and implications of large -scale genetic edition.
