Colossal Biosciences Announces Major Breakthrough in Dodo De-Extinction
Colossal Biosciences has unveiled a groundbreaking achievement in avian genetics, successfully securing $120 million in new funding aimed at propelling its dodo de-extinction initiative forward. To gain deeper insights into the implications for science, the company, and the iconic bird itself, Screen Rant conducted exclusive interviews with Colossal’s CEO Ben Lamm and Chief Science Officer Beth Shapiro. For centuries, the dodo has epitomized extinction, a creature erased from existence due to human actions, now remembered only in caricatures and historical accounts. Colossal Biosciences, which boasts a valuation of $10.3 billion, is making significant strides toward reversing that loss.
Colossal’s Milestone: A Cloned Red Wolf Celebrates Its First Birthday
Colossal recently marked another milestone with the first cloned red wolf, Neka Kayda, turning one year old, showcasing the company’s commitment to conservation efforts. “As the only de-extinction company in the world, it’s fitting that Colossal is focused on resurrecting the dodo, which symbolizes extinction caused by humans, as one of our flagship projects,” CEO Ben Lamm stated. “The joy we anticipate from its return will be nothing short of extraordinary and likely deeply emotional.” This article delves into Colossal’s recent scientific achievements, the $120 million funding boost, and the long-term vision to rewild the dodo on Mauritius Island, featuring exclusive insights from Lamm and Shapiro, along with visuals from Colossal’s avian research program.
Scientific Breakthrough in Pigeon Germ Cell Culturing for Dodo Revival
According to Beth Shapiro, Colossal’s Chief Science Officer, the excitement surrounding the project is now complemented by a significant scientific achievement. Colossal’s avian team recently announced the successful culturing of primordial germ cells (PGCs) from pigeons, a first in the world, which Shapiro describes as overcoming “a biological barrier to dodo de-extinction.” “For two decades, researchers could only culture germ cells from chickens and geese, which severely restricted advancements in avian genetic engineering. We have now unlocked the potential for pigeons, the dodo’s closest relatives, paving the way for the technical feasibility of restoring the dodo,” she explained. This development allows scientists to edit and cultivate pigeon cells, a crucial step toward using Nicobar pigeons as surrogates to revive the extinct species. Shapiro is optimistic about restoring the dodo’s unique physical traits, stating, “We are confident in recreating the dodo’s distinctive features, such as its large, curved beak, robust body, and flightlessness. Our genomic analyses have pinpointed the genetic variations responsible for these characteristics, while our research into developmental biology has identified the genes involved in beak formation and bone structure.”
Colossal Secures $120 Million to Fast-Track Dodo De-Extinction
The scientific aspect is just one part of the narrative. Colossal has successfully raised an additional $120 million, bringing its total funding to over $555 million since its inception in 2021. The company is now valued at $10.3 billion, and Lamm attributes this confidence from investors to the tangible results achieved. “It fundamentally comes down to delivery,” he remarked. “By setting expectations and consistently meeting them, we build trust. Our scientific teams have gained considerable credibility through their significant breakthroughs in recent years, which has attracted more investor interest.” With the influx of new funds, Lamm indicates that Colossal plans to broaden its species teams and advance infrastructure projects, including research and development related to artificial wombs. The funding will also bolster the Avian Genetics Group’s efforts that have already established a gene-edited chicken flock to potentially serve as surrogates for the dodo and other endangered avian species. Furthermore, Colossal has developed new genomic resources for exotic and endangered pigeons, aiding in identifying genetic editing priorities for the dodo initiative. These advancements not only accelerate the path toward dodo de-extinction but also create innovative tools for biodiversity conservation across avian species, mirroring how research into the de-extinction of dire wolves has contributed to red wolf conservation.
Preparing Mauritius for the Dodo’s Return
Colossal’s ambitions extend beyond laboratory walls. The ultimate objective is to rewild Mauritius, the island where dodos last roamed nearly three centuries ago. This endeavor necessitates community engagement, prompting the establishment of the Mauritius Dodo Advisory Committee. “When working with a species that possesses both cultural and ecological significance, it’s crucial to collaborate with local communities who will be directly affected by their return and rewilding,” Lamm noted. “This process is just as vital as the scientific work we are undertaking.” This approach reflects Colossal’s efforts in New Zealand, where its moa de-extinction project is guided by Māori leadership and Indigenous knowledge. In both instances, Colossal underscores that incorporating cultural perspectives and local leadership is not merely an adjunct to the science; it is fundamental to the enduring success of any rewilding initiative. Shapiro concurs, referencing Mauritius’ successful rewilding history. “Mauritius has demonstrated that rewilding can succeed,” she observed, citing the reintroduction of Aldabra giant tortoises to replace extinct native tortoise species. “These tortoises have played a crucial role in restoring vital ecosystem functions, such as seed dispersal for endangered ebony trees, and have aided in the regrowth of forests that were nearly depleted. If they can effectively rewild tortoises that were extinct for almost 200 years, we are confident that our collaborative efforts can successfully reintroduce dodos with the right planning and community backing.”
The Ecological Impact of Dodo’s Return and Timeline for Hatching
For Shapiro, the dodo represents more than just a symbol; it is a crucial ecological component that could help restore balance in Mauritius’ forests. “Dodos were ecological engineers—large seed dispersers that contributed to forest diversity,” she explained. “Many Mauritian plants likely co-evolved with dodos and may depend on their presence to thrive once more. Restoring this function could trigger a resurgence of forest health across the island, akin to the transformative impact wolves had on Yellowstone’s ecosystem.” The pressing question remains: when can we expect the first dodo to hatch? Shapiro, while cautious, remains hopeful. “We are projecting a timeline of 5 to 7 years for the first hatch, but our priority is ensuring the science is robust rather than rushing the process,” she clarified. “We aim to produce healthy, thriving birds capable of successfully revitalizing Mauritius’ ecosystems. …restoring the dodo will help rectify historical wrongs.” For Lamm, the dodo’s return signifies more than scientific achievement or business success. “As a symbol of extinction driven by human actions, reviving the dodo will help address past mistakes and serve as an emblem of hope for conservation efforts,” he concluded.
