Overview

• Colossal reports culturing primordial germ cells from the Nicobar pigeon, a foundational step toward generating bird sperm and eggs for editing.
• Because birds cannot be cloned, the plan uses CRISPR-edited pigeon germ cells implanted into genetically modified chickens to serve as surrogate egg producers.
• CEO Ben Lamm projects first dodo-like offspring in five to seven years and says the goal is to breed thousands with sufficient genetic diversity.
• The company says it is working with the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation to identify predator-controlled sites in Mauritius for potential release.
• Researchers question whether such birds would be authentic dodos and flag ecological and ethical risks, as Colossal discloses a new $120 million funding round backed by high-profile investors.