Colossal Biosciences, a Dallas-based biotechnology firm, has recently announced a groundbreaking achievement in the field of de-extinction: the successful creation of three wolf pups exhibiting traits reminiscent of the extinct dire wolf. This milestone has sparked discussions about the company’s valuation, which has soared to over $10 billion, and the broader implications of resurrecting extinct species.
The Dire Wolf Project
The dire wolf (Aenocyon dirus), a formidable predator from the last Ice Age, vanished approximately 13,000 years ago. Leveraging ancient DNA extracted from fossils dating back 13,000 and 72,000 years, Colossal Biosciences identified 20 key genetic differences between dire wolves and their closest living relatives, gray wolves. Utilizing CRISPR gene-editing technology, the company modified these genes in gray wolf cells to express dire wolf characteristics, such as larger size, muscular build, and white fur. The edited cells were then used to create embryos, which were implanted into surrogate domestic dogs. This process resulted in the birth of three pups—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—who are currently housed in a secure ecological preserve. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/science/us-company-resurrects-extinct-dire-wolf-or-some-version-it-2025-04-08/?utm_source=openai))
Scientific and Ethical Considerations
While Colossal Biosciences hails this as the first successful de-extinction, the scientific community remains cautious. Experts point out that these animals are genetically modified gray wolves rather than true dire wolves. David Gold, a professor of Paleobiology at UC Davis, remarked, It is an impressive feat of genome editing, but I would not call it de-extinction. He emphasized that the animals are not being raised in a pack by other dire wolves, and they are not being introduced into the wild.
Moreover, the recreated animals lack the learned behaviors and ecological roles that the original dire wolves once fulfilled. This raises questions about the practicality and ethics of reintroducing such species into modern ecosystems. While the physical resemblance is notable, the absence of cultural and behavioral traits inherent to the species underscores the complexity of true de-extinction.
Valuation and Funding
In January 2025, Colossal Biosciences secured $200 million in Series C financing, elevating its valuation to $10.2 billion. This funding round was led by TWG Global, the investment vehicle of Guggenheim Capital co-founder and CEO Mark Walter. The capital infusion brings Colossal’s total funding to $435 million since its launch in September 2021. ([dallasnews.com](https://www.dallasnews.com/business/local-companies/2025/01/15/colossal-biosciences-scores-new-funding-valuing-de-extinction-company-at-10b/?utm_source=openai))
The company’s ambitious projects, including the resurrection of the woolly mammoth and the dodo bird, have attracted significant investor interest. Co-founder and CEO Ben Lamm stated, This funding will grow our team, support new technology development, expand our de-extinction species list, while continuing to allow us to carry forth our mission to make extinction a thing of the past. ([dallasnews.com](https://www.dallasnews.com/business/local-companies/2025/01/15/colossal-biosciences-scores-new-funding-valuing-de-extinction-company-at-10b/?utm_source=openai))
Broader Implications and Future Prospects
Colossal Biosciences’ endeavors extend beyond de-extinction. The company applies its genetic technologies to conserve endangered animals, such as the critically endangered red wolf. By increasing genetic diversity, Colossal aims to combat inbreeding and bolster conservation efforts. Additionally, the firm collaborates with multiple conservation organizations and governmental bodies to integrate revived and preserved species into current ecosystems. ([time.com](https://time.com/7275439/science-behind-dire-wolf-return/?utm_source=openai))
The successful creation of dire wolf-like animals marks a significant milestone in genetic engineering and de-extinction science. However, it also prompts critical discussions about the ethical, ecological, and practical aspects of bringing extinct species back to life. As Colossal Biosciences continues to push the boundaries of biotechnology, the world watches closely to see how these scientific advancements will unfold and whether they justify the company’s substantial valuation.
