Scientists claim to have resurrected wolf species which was extinct for over 10,000 years

Ever heard of a process called de-extinction?

De-extinction, also known as resurrection biology, refers to the process of attempting to revive or recreate extinct species, often through cloning or genetic manipulation.

Scientists at Dallas-based biotech company, Colossal Biosciences say they have successfully conducted the de-extinction process with the dire wolf species, popularly known as the wolves from the Game of Thrones series.

They say Romulus and Remus— are now the world’s first de-extinct animals, born on 1 October 2024. While a third pup was born on 30 January this year.

The dire wolf has been extinct for over 10,000 years.

Colossal says these wolves were brought back from extinction using genetic edits derived from a complete dire wolf genome, meticulously reconstructed by its scientists from ancient DNA found in fossils dating back 11,500 and 72,000 years.

This moment is a leap forward for science, conservation, and humanity, said the company in social media posts.

"From the beginning, our goal has been clear: To revolutionize history and be the first company to use CRISPR technology successfully in the de-extinction of previously lost species. By achieving this, we continue to push forward our broader mission on—accepting humanity’s duty to restore Earth to a healthier state," the company said further.