Advancements in De-Extinction: Colossal’s Vision for Conservation
At this year’s South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, Colossal’s CEO, Ben Lamm, provided insights into the company’s ambitious plans to revive extinct species utilizing cutting-edge genetic engineering techniques. With a vision firmly rooted in conservation, Lamm emphasized that Colossal has no intentions of recreating a “Jurassic Park” scenario.
The Mission of De-Extinction
Lamm articulated a strong belief in the ethical duty to utilize technological advancements to address ecological challenges. “Modern conservation isn’t working […] and we’re gonna need a ‘de-extinction’ toolkit,” he stated during a discussion with actor and board member Joe Manganiello. The company is striving to resurrect the woolly mammoth, the dodo bird, and the thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian tiger.
Technological Endeavors and Goals
Founded in 2023 in Dallas by Lamm and renowned geneticist George Church, Colossal aims to create hybrid offspring of woolly mammoths by 2028, with plans to reintroduce these animals into their historical Arctic tundra habitat. The company is also focused on a research project to nurture Tasmanian tiger joeys for release back into their native environments in Tasmania and Australia.
Funding and Future Prospects
Colossal’s innovative approach has attracted substantial investor interest, securing hundreds of millions of dollars in venture capital and achieving a valuation of $10.2 billion. With multiple initiatives in progress, the company has launched spin-off ventures concentrating on specific applications related to its overall mission.
Lamm noted the potential for economic benefits in this field, stating there are “billions of dollars” to be made through the “re-wilding” of species and enhancing carbon sequestration efforts.
Recent Projects and Genetic Innovations
Among Colossal’s noteworthy projects is the development of a gene-edited mouse, referred to as the “woolly mouse.” This species exhibits long, shaggy fur with mutations modeled after the woolly mammoth’s genetics. Experts have expressed skepticism regarding this development, suggesting it reflects more on mouse genetics than a significant step toward de-extinction. Nonetheless, Lamm considers this project a successful validation of their research methodologies.
“It showed us that, initially, our edits that we were making for the mammoth are the right edits,” Lamm explained, reinforcing the project’s relevance to their end goals.
The Future of Synthetic Biology
During his talk, Lamm also addressed the broader implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in conjunction with synthetic biology, warning that this combination may represent a profoundly transformative technological evolution. He foresees advancements leading to significant medical breakthroughs, environmental solutions such as the elimination of oceanic plastics, and the provision of clean water worldwide.
Long-Term Aspirations and Collaborations
Lamm has ambitious visions for the future, predicting advancements in longevity that could extend human life expectancies significantly within the next two decades. He emphasized the need for initiatives akin to a “Manhattan Project” to safeguard endangered species through bio vaults, which would involve storing genetic materials like stem and egg cells for future use.
Although he did not disclose specifics, Lamm mentioned discussions with an interested country regarding collaborative efforts in this area.
Engagement with Government and Public Sector
Colossal also engages with U.S. governmental agencies on a quarterly basis and has received government investment, most likely through grants, to support its wide-ranging conservation efforts.
