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Genetically Engineered Pups Spark De-Extinction Debate

4/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Colossal Biosciences has made headlines with the arrival of three genetically engineered pups, reminiscent of the long-gone dire wolf, thanks to cutting-edge gene editing of gray wolf DNA. While this achievement is celebrated as a step towards de-extinction, experts caution that these pups—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—are not authentic dire wolves. They are currently thriving in a U.S. nature preserve.

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Story summary

Colossal Biosciences has made headlines with the arrival of three genetically engineered pups, reminiscent of the long-gone dire wolf, thanks to cutting-edge gene editing of gray wolf DNA. While this achievement is celebrated as a step towards de-extinction, experts caution that these pups—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—are not authentic dire wolves. They are currently thriving in a U.S. nature preserve.