Colossal Biosciences, led by CEO Ben Lamm, is working on reviving extinct species such as the woolly mammoth and dire wolf, drawing comparisons to the fictional Jurassic Park. Lamm acknowledges these comparisons but emphasizes that their work is focused on conservation and ecological benefits rather than mere entertainment.
The company is using advanced genetic engineering techniques, including CRISPR, to create embryos of these extinct animals by modifying the DNA of their closest living relatives. For instance, they have successfully created dire wolf pups using genetic material from ancient remains and modern gray wolves, which has sparked debate about the authenticity of their de-extinction claims.
Lamm argues that gray wolves are essentially genetically modified dire wolves, a perspective that he believes is crucial to understanding their work. Beyond the immediate goal of reviving these species, Colossal aims to leverage their genetic research for broader applications, such as combating climate change and improving human healthcare.
Their woolly mammoth project, which involves modifying Asian elephants, is expected to yield results by the 2030s. The company has raised over $435 million, including a recent $200 million funding round that valued it at $10.2 billion, highlighting strong investor confidence in their vision.
Lamm notes that a significant portion of their investors are motivated by the desire to inspire future generations in science and conservation, addressing the ongoing biodiversity crisis and its implications for the planet