Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Context:

Researchers at Colossal Biosciences have engineered genetically modified mice showing traits of the extinct woolly mammoth.

News in Detail

The primary goal of this research was to demonstrate the feasibility of using genetic engineering to show specific physical traits derived from extinct animals, focusing on cold adaptation characteristics of the woolly mammoth.

Methodology

Scientists employed a multi-step approach to achieve these results.

Genetic Analysis

Researchers compared the genomes of woolly mammoths (obtained from ancient DNA) with those of their closest living relatives, Asian elephants, to identify genetic differences related to traits essential for cold adaptation, including hair characteristics and fat metabolism.

Gene Selection

From the analysis, scientists identified ten gene variants linked to hair length, thickness, texture, color, and body fat. They then located related genes in laboratory mice that had known variants producing similar traits, particularly those associated with woolly coats.

Gene Editing

Using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, researchers made precise modifications to seven mouse genes, involving eight specific edits to introduce mammoth-like characteristics.

Observed Traits

The genetically modified "woolly mice" showed several expected traits:

Thick, Long Hair: By editing the FGF5 gene, which regulates hair growth cycles, the mice grew hair three times longer than typical mice.
Woolly and Wavy Hair: Modifications to three genes related to hair follicle development resulted in the desired woolly hair texture and wavy coats.
Golden Coat Color: Altering the MC1R gene changed the coat color from the typical black of wild mice to a golden hue, mimicking the mammoth's distinctive coat.
Altered Fat Metabolism: Scientists introduced a shortened version of the FABP2 gene, associated with fat metabolism in mammoths, to potentially influence body weight and cold tolerance.

Significance of the Research

Colossal Biosciences emphasizes that the woolly mice demonstrate the ability to recreate complex genetic combinations that evolved naturally over millions of years.

These genetically modified mice serve as a living model to test hypotheses about how specific genes dictate physical traits, particularly concerning adaptations to cold climates.

The company believes this technology could offer new methods to protect endangered species and potentially revive extinct ones.

Must Read Articles:

PLANT GENOME EDITING TOOLS

CRISPR TECHNOLOGY

Source:

INDIAN EXPRESS

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What are "woolly mice," which have been frequently featured in recent news?

A) A newly discovered species of mouse found in wool-producing regions.

B) Genetically engineered mice with woolly mammoth-like traits.

C) Mice infected with a fungal disease that makes their fur appear woolly.

D) A popular children's toy resembling mice made of wool.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Woolly mice are laboratory mice that have been genetically modified by scientists at Colossal Biosciences. They are engineered to express traits associated with woolly mammoths, an extinct species. This includes having long, thick, and woolly fur, resembling the coat of a woolly mammoth. The goal is to study and validate techniques related to "de-extinction" and understand cold-adaptation traits.

https://t.me/+hJqMV1O0se03Njk9