Scientists aiming to bring back woolly mammoth create woolly mice

Summary

Scientists at Colossal Biosciences have genetically modified mice to develop woolly hair, a step toward engineering Asian elephants with woolly mammoth traits.

Using genome editing, they altered fertilized mouse eggs and embryonic stem cells before implanting them into surrogates.

They disrupted nine genes linked to hair color, texture, and growth, producing mice with long, golden-brown coats but no confirmed cold tolerance.

Experts remain skeptical, noting mammoth de-extinction requires more genetic changes and behavioral considerations, with some arguing conservation efforts should take priority.