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Colossal Biosciences unveils AI platform GenoMorph for dodo de-extinction
Colossal Biosciences, a biotechnology company based in Dallas, has introduced GenoMorph, an artificial intelligence platform designed to accelerate the de-extinction of species. The company is currently applying this technology to the dodo, a bird extinct since the 17th century.
GenoMorph utilizes comparative genomics, developmental biology, and 3D morphological data to identify genetic switches responsible for physical traits. By training on data from over 70 bird species, including chickens and pigeons, the system helps researchers predict which DNA regions influence facial and beak structures. Colossal has identified approximately 2,350 candidate genetic targets related to the dodo's unique beak, including 653 targets for beak size and 1,698 for thickness and width.
The dodo genome is currently 95% complete. To overcome the challenges of fragmented ancient DNA, researchers plan to use the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo's closest living relative, as a surrogate. The company has already developed a lipid nanoparticle-based system to deliver gene-editing tools to developing bird embryos. Colossal aims to bring the dodo back to life by the early 2030s.
Entities
Ben Lamm · Beth Shapiro · Colossal Biosciences · GenoMorph · Mauritius · Nicobar pigeon
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Researchers identified about 2,350 genetic switches that may explain the dodo's distinct beak. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br · dijitaliyidir.com · webrazzi.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The company aims to bring the dodo back to life by the early 2030s. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The dodo genome is currently 95% complete. veja.abril.com.br
- [● 2 SOURCES] Colossal Biosciences successfully brought back the Tasmanian wolf in 2025. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br · veja.abril.com.br
- [● 4 SOURCES] Scientists plan to use the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo's closest living relative, as a surrogate for the de-extinction process. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br · veja.abril.com.br · dijitaliyidir.com · webrazzi.com
- [● 5 SOURCES] Colossal Biosciences has developed an AI platform named GenoMorph to assist in the de-extinction of species. www.brasilemfolhas.com.br · revistagalileu.globo.com · veja.abril.com.br · dijitaliyidir.com · webrazzi.com