Scientists Near Completion of Tasmanian Tiger Genome for De-Extinction

Colossal Biosciences and the University of Melbourne aim to revive the extinct marsupial using advanced genetic technology.

• The thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian tiger, went extinct in 1936 due to extensive hunting and habitat loss.
• Colossal Biosciences has reconstructed the thylacine genome to 99.9% accuracy, with only 45 gaps remaining to be sequenced.
• Researchers are using fat-tailed dunnart cells, the thylacine's closest living relative, to create a genetic proxy of the extinct species.
• The project aims to reintroduce the thylacine to its natural habitat, though some scientists express concerns about ecological impacts.
• Advancements in marsupial reproductive technology through this project could benefit conservation efforts for endangered species like the Tasmanian devil.

3 Articles

Science Focus Phys.org Gizmodo