US company announces progress toward resurrecting the extinct dodo

Key Points:

• Dallas-based Colossal Biosciences is advancing efforts to resurrect the extinct dodo bird by using a new AI platform, GenoMorph, to identify genetic changes responsible for the dodo's distinctive features and target gene edits in its closest living relative, the Nicobar pigeon.
• The company has completed 95% of the dodo genome analysis and aims to shorten testing times for genetic edits, though it has not announced a timeline for hatching a dodo.
• Colossal is collaborating with Mauritian scientists and conservation groups to prepare a safe habitat for reintroduced dodos, including removing invasive species and restoring native ecosystems.
• The GenoMorph AI platform helps overcome challenges of limited ancient DNA by comparing developmental genetics across over 70 bird species to pinpoint key gene-editing targets linked to the dodo’s unique craniofacial traits.
• Alongside the dodo, Colossal is pursuing de-extinction projects for other species such as the dire wolf, woolly mammoth, thylacine, bluebuck antelope, and moa, aiming to demonstrate that extinction may not be permanent.