A Giant Leap Towards De-Extinction

Colossal Biosciences is on a groundbreaking mission to revive the dodo, a bird gone for nearly 300 years. With a recent funding boost of **$120 million**, the company is solidifying its place at the forefront of avian cellular research and de-extinction technology.

Big Investments Fuel Ambitious Goals

This fresh capital tops off their previous investment round, bringing the total to a staggering **$320 million**, and elevating the company's valuation to **$10.32 billion**. Notable backers include prominent figures like **Peter Jackson** and **Bob Nelsen**.

Groundbreaking Achievements in Avian Genetics

Colossal has made a historic milestone by growing primordial germ cells (PGCs) from pigeons, a crucial step toward reviving the dodo. This scientific breakthrough opens new doors not only for the dodo project but also for the conservation of other endangered species.

The Science Behind Bringing Back the Dodo

Creating a living dodo involves complex genetic methodologies. Birds, unlike mammals, cannot be cloned using traditional methods, making the cultivation and editing of PGCs essential for transferring genetic modifications across generations.

Expanding the Gene Pool for Conservation

Colossal doesn’t just focus on the dodo. They've also built a unique flock of genetically-edited chickens that could act as surrogates for dodos and other endangered species. Their projects benefit from newly developed genomic resources that improve the conservation strategies for birds like the Mauritian pink pigeon, which is grappling with alarming population declines.

A Team of Experts Supporting the Cause

To ensure the dodo's reintroduction respects local culture, Colossal formed the Mauritius Dodo Advisory Committee, featuring experts like **Dr. Devina Lobine** and **Prof. Carl Jones**. They bring a wealth of knowledge that will guide the project while honoring Mauritius's rich heritage.

A Bright Future for Avian Conservation

Colossal's powerful advancements extend beyond de-extinction. The established capability to culture PGCs not only allows for the potential resurrection of the dodo but also signifies a valuable tool for conserving avian biodiversity. This initiative aims to mitigate genetic losses in various endangered species, ensuring a brighter future for avian life.

Key Insights from Colossal Leadership

Colossal's CEO **Ben Lamm** emphasized that this progress in PGC culture is a game-changer for avian conservation efforts. It boosts their mission to not just bring back the dodo but to enhance biodiversity and conservation technologies, creating a sustainable framework for future generations.

Conclusion: A New Era in Biodiversity Restoration

With their exciting breakthroughs, Colossal Biosciences is not just chasing the dream of resurrecting the dodo but is also laying the foundation for a transformative era in wildlife conservation. The world is watching as innovative techniques could soon see the return of an iconic species, breathing new life into the field of biodiversity restoration.