Bringing Back the Woolly mammoth: De-Extinction and the Future of Conservation
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The idea of resurrecting extinct animals, once confined to the realm of science fiction, is rapidly becoming a reality. Colossal Biosciences, a company founded by serial entrepreneur Ben Lamm, is at the forefront of this movement, aiming to bring back iconic creatures like the woolly mammoth and the dodo. While Lamm acknowledges the parallels between his work and the fictionalized de-extinction depicted in Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park,he emphasizes the crucial differences in approach and ethical considerations.
“People have to remember that that was a movie, right?” Lamm says, referring to the blockbuster film. “We’re not filling in gaps with frog DNA.”
Instead, Colossal Biosciences utilizes a more sophisticated and ethical approach. Their process begins with obtaining ancient DNA samples from ancient specimens, often housed in museums or discovered in the field.these samples are then compared to the genomes of the closest living relatives, such as the Asian elephant for the woolly mammoth.
“First you have to get ancient DNA, right, and that exists sometimes in museums, sometimes in the field. A lot of researchers have actually already done the work,” lamm explains. “So we work with the top ancient DNA researchers in the world.”
Using advanced AI-powered comparative genomics, scientists identify the specific genes responsible for the unique characteristics of the extinct species. These genes are then ”engineered in” to the cells of a closely related living species, such as an elephant, through a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer. This technique, pioneered in Edinburgh, involves transferring the nucleus of a cell containing the modified genetic material into an egg cell that has had its own nucleus removed. The resulting embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mother.
“We’re in the editing phase on cells on both the mammoth and the thylacine, which is awesome,” Lamm states, highlighting the company’s progress.
Colossal Biosciences aims to bring the first woolly mammoth calf into the world by late 2028, born to a surrogate elephant mother. This ambitious goal is driven by the belief that de-extinction can play a vital role in conservation efforts.
Beyond reviving iconic species, Lamm envisions a future where de-extinction technology can be used to protect endangered animals from extinction.”It is this latter process that Lamm hopes could be used to protect existing animal species,such as the vanishingly rare northern white rhino,from dying out,” the article states.The company is also exploring the progress of artificial wombs, which could possibly be used to gestate and birth animals without the need for surrogate mothers. Lamm believes this technology could revolutionize conservation efforts by providing a safe and controlled habitat for endangered species to reproduce.
“We may achieve that with a small mammal, perhaps a mouse, within two years,” Lamm says, referring to the artificial womb technology.
The potential applications of de-extinction extend beyond conservation.
For example, reviving extinct species could provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on Earth and the impact of climate change.
Furthermore, de-extinction could potentially lead to the development of new medicines and therapies.
However, the ethical implications of de-extinction are complex and require careful consideration.
Critics argue that resources should be focused on protecting existing species rather than bringing back extinct ones.
others raise concerns about the potential ecological consequences of introducing resurrected species into ecosystems that have evolved without them.
Despite these challenges, Colossal Biosciences remains committed to its mission of bringing back extinct species responsibly and ethically.The company emphasizes the importance of openness and public engagement in the de-extinction process.
“We want to make sure that the public is informed and involved in this conversation,” Lamm says. “This is not just about science; it’s about our relationship with the natural world.”
As we stand on the cusp of a new era in conservation, de-extinction offers both exciting possibilities and profound challenges.
The success of Colossal Biosciences and other de-extinction efforts will depend on a careful balance between scientific innovation, ethical considerations, and public engagement.
The future of extinct species may well lie in our hands, and the choices we make today will shape the world of tomorrow.
Bringing Back the Dodo: Can Technology Rewrite Extinction?
The idea of resurrecting extinct animals,once confined to the realm of science fiction,is rapidly becoming a reality. Ben Lamm, co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, a company dedicated to de-extinction, believes that we are on the cusp of a new era in conservation.
“like the sheep: only now we use robotics and lasers. Back then they were using, like, this,” he says, picking up a table knife and gesturing. “The fact that Dolly worked was a miracle!” Lamm is referring to Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell, a landmark achievement in 1996.
While Dolly’s cloning was a monumental leap, the technology has advanced significantly since then. Colossal Biosciences is leveraging cutting-edge gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 and advanced robotics to bring back species like the woolly mammoth and the thylacine (Tasmanian tiger).
“We’re in the editing phase on cells on both the mammoth and the thylacine, which is awesome. We’re not quiet there on the dodo yet. We’re still doing the computational biology work,” Lamm explains, suggesting a potential announcement of progress on the dodo front within the next six months.
The company’s ambitious goal is to create herds or flocks of these resurrected species, allowing them to roam free in their natural habitats. Lamm envisions mammoths grazing across the frozen plains of the Arctic tundra and dodos once again inhabiting the forests of Madagascar.
“What everyone generally agrees is that a more biodiverse ecosystem is a healthier one: so one with predators, one with large megafauna, one with large herbivores,” Lamm argues, pointing to research suggesting that restoring “keystone herbivores” like mammoths could actually benefit the environment.
He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, stating, “With all the species that we’re working on, we were working with indigenous people, groups, private landowners and governments to put them back in the wild in their natural habitats.”
Lamm’s journey into de-extinction is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for science. He has already co-founded and sold five successful technology companies, including Conversable, a precursor to large language models, and Chaotic Moon Studios, a creative software company acquired by Accenture in 2015.
His foray into de-extinction was sparked by a meeting with George Church, a renowned Harvard professor and pioneer in synthetic biology. Church, who envisioned bringing back the mammoth, saw in Lamm a kindred spirit and a partner to make his dream a reality.
“I was like: let’s do that!” Lamm recalls,highlighting the shared enthusiasm that fueled the creation of Colossal Biosciences.
While the company’s primary mission is conservation, Lamm acknowledges the potential for commercial applications. Colossal Biosciences has already spun out two businesses and plans to create more, leveraging the technologies developed for de-extinction to address other challenges.
“My background is building technology companies,” Lamm explains.”And then I met a guy named George Church. George is, like, the father of synthetic biology. He’s the guy, and this was his idea.”
Beyond the economic benefits, Lamm hopes that Colossal Biosciences’ work will inspire a new generation of scientists.
“Every single week, we get, like, little kids drawing pictures of dodos or mammoths, and their parents sending us a thing saying ‘thank you for doing this. You’re making science cool’,” he says. “If we can put synthetic biology in the hearts and minds and homes of people,change people’s perspective,maybe,maybe we get one less influencer and one more scientist,right?”
The Ethical and Practical Challenges of De-Extinction
while the prospect of bringing back extinct species is undeniably exciting,it also raises significant ethical and practical concerns.
Ecological Impact: Reintroducing extinct species into ecosystems could have unforeseen consequences. For example, the return of mammoths to the Arctic tundra could disrupt existing food chains and alter the landscape.
Animal Welfare: Resurrected animals may face challenges adapting to their new environments and could suffer from genetic defects or health problems.
Resource Allocation: De-extinction is a costly and resource-intensive endeavor. Critics argue that these resources could be better spent on protecting existing endangered species.
Playing God: Some people believe that de-extinction is morally wrong, as it involves interfering with the natural order of life and death.
The Future of De-Extinction
Despite the challenges, de-extinction research is progressing rapidly.Colossal Biosciences is not alone in its pursuit; other companies and research institutions are also working on bringing back extinct species.
The potential applications of de-extinction technology extend beyond conservation. Scientists are exploring the possibility of using it to:
Restore lost biodiversity: De-extinction could help to rebuild ecosystems that have been damaged by human activity.
Study extinct species: Resurrected animals could provide valuable insights into the biology and behaviour of extinct creatures.
* Develop new medicines: The genes of extinct animals may hold the key to developing new treatments for diseases.The ethical and practical implications of de-extinction will continue to be debated for years to come. However, the rapid pace of technological advancement suggests that we are on the brink of a new era in conservation, one where the line between science fiction and reality is becoming increasingly blurred.
“More is More”: Decoding the Mindset of a Driven Entrepreneur
The provided snippets offer a glimpse into the life and philosophy of a successful entrepreneur. While limited, these insights reveal a man driven by ambition, a penchant for calculated risks, and a clear understanding of the importance of self-care.Let’s delve deeper into these themes, exploring their implications for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone seeking to achieve their goals.
Education and Early influences:
The entrepreneur’s background in finance and accounting from Baylor University, a reputable institution in Texas, provides a solid foundation for his business acumen. A strong understanding of financial principles is crucial for any entrepreneur, enabling them to make informed decisions about investments, budgeting, and growth strategies.
The Lure of the “Steal”:
The entrepreneur’s regret over passing on an ”insane island property” in 2020 highlights the inherent tension between calculated risk and possibility cost. The COVID-19 pandemic created unique market fluctuations, presenting potential “steals” for savvy investors. However, the decision to pass likely stemmed from a careful assessment of risk factors, market trends, and personal financial goals. This anecdote underscores the importance of thorough due diligence and a clear understanding of one’s own risk tolerance.
“Don’t Take Advice”:
The entrepreneur’s mantra, “Don’t take advice,” is a bold statement that reflects a strong sense of self-belief and a willingness to forge his own path. While seeking guidance from mentors and experts can be invaluable, ultimately, the entrepreneur’s success hinges on his ability to trust his instincts and make decisions aligned with his vision. This philosophy resonates with the entrepreneurial spirit, which often thrives on innovation and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.
“More is More”:
The entrepreneur’s repeated use of the phrase “more is more” reveals a relentless drive for growth and enhancement. This mindset can be both a strength and a challenge. On one hand, it fuels ambition and pushes individuals to strive for excellence. On the other hand, it can lead to burnout and an insatiable hunger that is tough to satisfy. Finding a balance between ambition and self-care is crucial for long-term success.
Balancing Ambition with Self-Care:
The entrepreneur’s list of relaxation techniques – vacations, reading, music, hydrogen baths, red light therapy, and running – demonstrates a conscious effort to prioritize self-care. This is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being, especially in the demanding world of entrepreneurship.
Practical Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Embrace a Growth Mindset: Cultivate a “more is more” attitude towards learning, skill development, and expanding your network.
Seek Mentorship, but Trust Your Instincts: Learn from experienced individuals, but ultimately, make decisions that align with your vision and values.
Master Financial Fundamentals: A strong understanding of finance is crucial for making informed business decisions.
Calculate Risks Carefully: Weigh potential rewards against potential losses before making significant investments.
* Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that recharge you and prevent burnout.
The entrepreneur’s story, though brief, offers valuable insights into the mindset and habits of successful individuals. By embracing a growth mindset, seeking guidance while trusting their instincts, and prioritizing self-care, aspiring entrepreneurs can increase their chances of achieving their goals and building a fulfilling career.
From Finance to Mammoth Revival: An Interview with a tech Entrepreneur
Q: Your background is in finance, yet you’ve founded several prosperous technology companies. What sparked your transition into the tech world?
A: Honestly, I’ve always been fascinated by technology. While finance provided a solid foundation, I felt a stronger pull towards innovation and building things. I saw opportunities to leverage technology to solve problems and create something truly impactful.
Q: You’ve sold five successful companies, including Conversable, a precursor to large language models. How did you identify those opportunities, and what was the driving force behind your ventures?
A: I believe in identifying emerging trends and understanding how technology can disrupt existing industries. Conversable, for example, emerged from recognizing the potential of AI in conversational interfaces.I’m driven by a desire to push boundaries and explore what’s possible.
Q: Your latest venture,Colossal Biosciences,aims to bring extinct species back to life. This is certainly a bold ambition. What inspired this seemingly unconventional path?
A: Meeting George Church,a pioneer in synthetic biology,ignited my passion for de-extinction. His vision resonated deeply with me, and I saw an opportunity to combine my entrepreneurial drive with cutting-edge science.
Q: Beyond conservation, what other potential applications do you envision for de-extinction technology?
A: The possibilities are vast. We’re exploring applications in restoring biodiversity, understanding extinct species, and even developing new medicines.
Q: Critics argue that resources allocated to de-extinction could be better spent on protecting existing endangered species. How do you respond to this?
A: While protecting existing species is paramount, we believe de-extinction can complement conservation efforts.
Moreover, the technologies developed for de-extinction have broad applications beyond bringing back extinct species.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who dream of making a meaningful impact?
A: Embrace a growth mindset, constantly learn, and be willing to take calculated risks. Don’t be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and trust your instincts.
Most importantly, remember that building a successful venture takes dedication, resilience, and a strong belief in your vision.
Q: Your mantra seems to be “more is more.” What dose that mean in the context of entrepreneurship?
A: It’s about constantly striving for improvement, expanding your knowledge, building relationships, and pushing boundaries.
Whether it’s learning new skills, exploring new markets, or seeking innovative solutions, embracing ”more” fuels growth and progress.
Q: balancing ambition with self-care is crucial, especially in demanding fields. How do you prioritize your well-being?
A: Taking time for myself is essential. Vacations, reading, music, hydrogen baths, red light therapy, running—these activities recharge me and help me stay focused and energized.