Why This Billionaire Is Bringing Back the Dire Wolf, Woolly Mammoth & More w/ Ben Lamm & Salim | 165
AI Summary
Summary of Video: Reintroducing Extinct Species and The Science Behind It
Host: The show features an engaging discussion among prominent figures in the field, including CEO Ben Lamb of Colossal Biosciences. They delve into the topic of deextinction, particularly the return of the dire wolf.
Key Points:
- Deextinction Achievements:
- Colossal has successfully introduced three dire wolf pups, sparking debate about the implications and ethics of deextinction.
- Other species in consideration for deextinction include the woolly mammoth, the Tasmanian tiger, and the dodo.
- Technological Innovations:
- Advancements in synthetic biology and gene editing are pivotal in resurrection efforts.
- Techniques such as multiplexer gene editing have enabled rapid advancements in genetic manipulations.
- The use of ancient DNA allows scientists to recreate nearly complete genomes of extinct species, facilitating the reintroduction of certain genetic traits into living relatives, such as gray wolves for dire wolves.
- Artificial Wombs:
- Colossal is working towards developing artificial womb technology, with the aim of birthing species such as the mammoth by 2026 and eventually the Tasmanian tiger shortly after.
- This technology could revolutionize conservation efforts and significantly reduce gestation times for endangered species.
- Ethical Considerations:
- The conversation includes discussions on the ethical ramifications of deextinction, including potential ecological impacts and the debate over species classification.
- The exercise of caution is emphasized, particularly regarding the introduction of modified or deextinct species into their ecosystems.
- Conservation and Biodiversity:
- Colossal’s work focuses not only on bringing back extinct species but also on empowering conservation through biodiversity credits and community engagement.
- The conversation underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving technologists, conservationists, and ethicists.
- Future Aspirations:
- Ben Lamb expresses the ambition to save every species on the planet and discusses how this effort could reshape conservation efforts globally.
- The team envisions using the advances in technology, including quantum computing, to enhance their capabilities in effective ecosystem restoration.
Conclusion: The episode offers profound insights into the exciting yet controversial realm of deextinction, highlighting both the scientific advances and the ethical considerations surrounding the reintroduction of extinct species.