A few years ago, seeing woolly mammoths on Earth was pure science fiction. Today, with advances in biotechnology, this project seems to be getting closer. Colossal Biosciences, based in Dallas, Texas, is leading an ambitious effort to resurrect this extinct species. By combining genetic engineering, molecular biology, and archaeological research, the team aims not only to bring back the woolly mammoth but also to play a major role in planet conservation.
Colossal Biosciences operates from its 5,111 square meter laboratory in Dallas. The goal is to modify the DNA very precisely to create an animal that looks and behaves like the woolly mammoth while fulfilling a crucial role in ecosystems. The process involves extracting ancient DNA, genetic editing, validation on mouse models, and then embryo cloning. Each step is progressing, and according to TF1 Info, the company aims to have similar embryos to mammoths by 2028.
The acquisition of ViaGen in November 2025 has strengthened Colossal’s cloning capability. ViaGen is known for cloning over 3,000 animals. Matt James, animal manager at Colossal, plays a key role in coordinating these projects. In addition to the woolly mammoth, Colossal has also conducted experiments on other species, such as woolly mice and dire wolves.
The rediscovery of the mammoth relies on a massive genomic database. Researchers have assembled over 50 mammoth genomes covering 1.2 million years of evolution. The oldest samples, dating back 1.2 million years, were recovered in the 1970s in Siberia by Russian paleontologist Andrei Sher. Mammoth molars often provide usable DNA, even though this ancient DNA is highly fragmented and presents significant challenges.
Comparisons between mammoths and current elephants show a 99.6% DNA similarity. This closeness allows targeted genetic modifications to recreate characteristics like thick fur, a hump, smaller ears, and additional fat reserves. Tools like CRISPR-Cas9 facilitate these manipulations.
The woolly mammoth appeared about 700,000 years ago in Siberia and was perfectly adapted to the cold steppe. Standing up to 3.35 m at the shoulder and weighing up to 6 tons, its double-layered coat and subcutaneous fat layer allowed it to withstand temperatures dropping below -40°C. The tusks, which could measure up to 4.57 m, served for defense and digging up food under the snow.
Bringing back the mammoth could help slow down permafrost melting. As a keystone species, its reintroduction could transform ecosystems by maintaining steppes, seed dispersal, and overall contributing to a more stable environment.
