Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe

Did Colossal bring back the dire wolf?

13 snips
Jun 24, 2025
The conversation dives into the concept of de-extinction, contemplating the resurrection of species like the dire wolf. It raises intriguing ethical questions and the scientific hurdles of reviving extinct animals using advanced genetic techniques. Colossal's ambitious project to reconstruct the dire wolf genome is explored, along with concerns about ecological impacts. The hosts humorously tackle the challenges of genetic manipulation and emphasize the need for thoughtful consideration in conservation efforts. Prepare for a blend of science, ethics, and lively debate!
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INSIGHT

Limits of De-Extinction

  • De-extinction aims to recreate organisms resembling extinct species but often lacks complete genomes or populations.
  • Many view current de-extinction efforts as approximations, not true resurrection of extinct species.
ANECDOTE

Hosts' Animal Meat Experiences

  • Daniel and Kelly share personal stories about the various animal meats they've eaten.
  • Their casual discussion sets a relatable context for exploring extinct animals' tastes.
INSIGHT

Functional De-Extinction Explained

  • Colossal's "functional de-extinction" edits core genes of extinct species into close relatives for survival in modern environments.
  • This method blends extinct traits with adaptability rather than fully restoring the original extinct genome.
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