Science Weekly
Is ‘de-extinction’ really possible?
Apr 22, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Nicola Davis, Science correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the controversial world of de-extinction. She explores the recent claims of reviving the dire wolf and questions whether these wolves are truly extinct or just genetically modified. Nicola highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding species revival and the challenges faced in dramatically altered environments. She also introduces innovative conservation projects like the 'poo zoo,' showcasing the fusion of genetic tech with traditional methods to save endangered species.
16:26
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Quick takeaways
- Colossal Biosciences' work highlights the difference between genetically modifying grey wolves and truly resurrecting extinct species like the dire wolf.
- The ethical implications of de-extinction raise concerns about ecological balance and the well-being of existing ecosystems in conservation efforts.
Deep dives
The Reality of De-Extinction Claims
The claim by Colossal Biosciences of resurrecting dire wolves has sparked both interest and skepticism. Instead of bringing the species back, the company has genetically modified grey wolves using DNA extracted from ancient remains to create hybrids that resemble dire wolves. This process involved making small edits to the genome through genetic engineering techniques, including gene editing and cloning. However, these hybrids are fundamentally different from the original dire wolves, which raises questions about the accuracy and feasibility of accurately replicating extinct species.
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