Tasmanian tiger genome sequencing has reached a major milestone, offering fresh hope for the return of the extinct marsupial last seen in the wild in 1936.
In a groundbreaking collaboration between U.S.-based Colossal Biosciences and the University of Melbourne, scientists have successfully mapped the full genetic blueprint of the Tasmanian tiger, also known as the thylacine. According to 9 News, this scientific breakthrough could lead to the animal’s revival within the next eight years.
“We’ve now sequenced the entire thylacine genome — every bit of genetic code from start to finish,” said lead researcher Professor Andrew Pask. “This has allowed us to create the first essential stem cells needed for the complex gene editing work required to reconstruct the species.”
Tasmanian tiger genome sequencing leads revival efforts
For many in Tasmania, the thylacine is more than just a long-lost animal. “Where I come from, the thylacine is deeply woven into our community’s identity,” said Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis, who also heads the Tasmanian Thylacine Advisory Committee.
The research follows Colossal Biosciences’ earlier success in reviving the extinct dire wolf. Earlier this year, the company introduced three living dire wolf pups—Romulus, Remus, and Khalessi—bred using DNA extracted from ancient remains.
Tasmanian tiger genome sequencing advances de-extinction
Colossal’s approach involves modifying the DNA of living species until they closely resemble their extinct counterparts. “Our team used genetic material from a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull to create healthy dire wolf puppies,” said Ben Lamm, the company’s CEO and co-founder.
George R. R. Martin, the author of Game of Thrones, praised the effort, saying, “Many people see dire wolves as mythical creatures, but they played a real role in our ecosystem.”
Both the dire wolf and Tasmanian tiger genome sequencing projects are part of Colossal’s broader mission to bring back species that have vanished from Earth.
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Source: www.people.com
