Scientists have plans to utilize genetic technology to resurrect the infamous dodo bird. The flightless bird that previously resided on the island of Mauritius has been extinct since the 17th century. By using DNA sequencing, gene editing, and synthetic biology, scientists are determined to bring back the dodo species. If successful, the technology could be used for conserving and reinstating other bird species. Scientists have already completed the first crucial step in the process— creating a genome sequence from ancient DNA. If the subsequent steps go as planned, the new dodo bird will be a hybrid-dodo, as its genes will be combined with some of the dodo’s closest living species.
Image via Colossal Biosciences
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