Overview
- VML, The Organoid Company, and Lab-Grown Leather announced a partnership to engineer lab-grown leather using fossilized T. rex collagen and synthetic DNA templates.
- Scientists and experts highlight the scientific challenges, citing the degradation of DNA over millions of years and the questionable authenticity of past T. rex collagen findings.
- The project is in its early stages, with a prototype targeted for late 2025, but experts warn that any resulting material will likely resemble modern synthetic leathers rather than authentic dinosaur leather.
- The companies promote the initiative as a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional leather, addressing environmental concerns like deforestation and chemical pollution.
- Future plans include expanding the prehistoric-inspired material into industries beyond fashion, such as automotive applications, despite skepticism regarding the project's timeline and practicality.